IDRC at COP21

 
April 13, 2016

IDRC participated in the UN climate conference (COP21) in Paris from November 30 to December 11, 2015, as part of Canada’s official delegation.

More than 20 of our developing-country grantees shared their research findings at official and parallel events over the course of the two weeks. These researchers are driving climate change adaptation forward in areas such as agriculture, cities, and private-sector financing.

“Climate change is a key part of IDRC’s programming,” said IDRC President Jean Lebel. “We support innovative research that is advancing key policies and practical solutions to climate challenges in more than 70 developing countries. We look forward to continue working with the Government of Canada on this critical issue.”

COP21 events involving IDRC staff and grantees included:

Session on private sector role in adaptation (Dec. 3)

IDRC co-convened an official side event on engaging the private sector in adaptation. The discussion focused on the need to translate climate science for the business sector, support start-up ventures and bring successful innovations to scale, and create a policy environment that allows businesses to take on more risk. Panellists included Dominique Charron, Director of IDRC’s Agriculture and Environment program. Watch a short video.

 

Round table on research in the Global South (Dec. 3)

 

IDRC President Jean Lebel took part in a high-level round table on challenges and opportunities for climate change adaptation research in the Global South. Speakers highlighted the role of collaboration in building research capacity, particularly in Africa. They also pointed to the need for training and education, technology transfer, and an interdisciplinary approach in addressing climate challenges. Read more

Development and Climate Days (Dec. 5-6

IDRC co-organized the 13th annual Development and Climate Days side event, which was opened by IDRC’s Dominique Charron and Andrew Norton, Director of the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED). The two-day gathering brought together policymakers, researchers, and development practitioners for dialogue, learning, and networking around the goal of zero net emissions and poverty (“zero zero”). More than 10 IDRC grantees shared research findings on themes such as adaptation in drylands and small island states. Read more

IDRC grantees share scientific evidence with African Group of Negotiators

IDRC-funded researchers in Africa contributed to the UNFCCC negotiation process by providing expert support to the African Group of Negotiators, specifically on climate change impacts on agriculture and gender.

 

Learn more about IDRC climate initiatives announced at the Paris meeting:

  • IDRC announces Cities and Climate Change research initiative
  • New initiative to engage private sector on climate adaptation
  • Climate change project wins prestigious UN award

Photos (from top): IDRC co-convened a session on private sector engagement in adaptation; Jean Lebel, IDRC President, speaks at high-level round table on opportunities for research collaboration in the Global South; IDRC grantees shared scientific evidence with the African Group of Negotiators.