Source organisation:

European Union

Objective:

Adaptation

Mitigation

Publication date:

Monday, February 12, 2024

12 February 2024 – Copenhagen. The European Commission launches a EUR 2 million (USD 2.1 million) grant in support of the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN). The project will run for the next two years to bolster technology for climate action in developing countries, with a special focus on least developing countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS). 

The start of the project comes at a critical juncture, following the release of the first UNFCCC Global Stocktake report (GST), the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Sixth Assessment Report (IPCC AR6), and the 2023 UNEP Emission Gap Report underscoring the urgency of addressing climate change and the role of climate technology.

Funded by the EU’s Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI – Global Europe), the grant supports the implementation of CTCN 3rd Programme of Work. This allows CTCN to continue providing technical assistance and accelerate technology and knowledge transfer in the countries and communities least prepared for and most affected by the impacts of climate change.

Throughout the 10 years of operation of the CTCN, the European Union and its Member States have invested in CTCN and its country-driven business model, trusting its capacity to deliver on a portfolio of technology and innovative solutions, knowledge transfer and advice on policy, legal and regulatory frameworks tailored to the needs of individual countries. 

This EUR 2 million project, follows the EUR 3 million provided by the European Commission in 2023 to sustain the new joint EU-CTCN programme Climate Change and Security: Innovative Community-based Climate Technology for Communities at Risks of Conflicts Due to Climate Impact, which is strengthening the resilience of conflict-affected societies by encouraging and facilitating conflict-sensitive, community-based technological solutions to climate change.

“Our global future depends on innovation and technology for climate action and our capacity to create partnerships that enable the transfer and implementation of climate technology where it is most needed, such as the developing countries at the frontline of the climate emergency”, said Rajiv Garg, CTCN Director a.i.

“We are honoured by the trust donors place in CTCN and the capacity of the CTCN team and network members to create pathways for national strategies, aggregation of regional markets and the de-risking of private and public investments. This is a responsibility we do not take lightly, and that is why CTCN is exploring new partnerships and funding opportunities to scale up innovative climate solutions and move from ideation to piloting at national and regional implementation”, concluded Mr Garg.

With a total contribution of USD 19.6 million to the CTCN since 2014 from the European Commission, the EU and its Member States are the leading force in empowering technology for systems’ transformation in developing countries, not only addressing the urgent challenges of today but also laying the groundwork for a sustainable and resilient tomorrow. 

“At the heart of the EU's priorities lies a steadfast commitment to innovation and climate resilience. This grant is an investment the EU is making for a prosperous future for everyone. When it comes to people and planet, the European Union is walking the talk, through policies, actions, and global partnerships in Europe and beyond”, said Kurt Vandenberghe, Director General for the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Climate Action. 

“This grant is going to strengthen the resilience of communities struggling with extreme weather events, droughts and pollution, providing them with sound and scalable technology solutions and the knowledge and capacity to forge their own path towards a sustainable future.” Mr Vandenberghe continued.

“We urge the international donor community and other philanthropic bodies to join us and the CTCN in this global endeavour. Only by joining forces can we make a difference in achieving net zero by 2050”, he concluded.

In the past 10 years, also thanks to several Donor Governments, and in-kind and pro bono support, CTCN has delivered over 300 technical assistance projects & 10 multi-country projects in 110 developing countries, with 108 mitigation, 71 adaptation, and 61 cross-cutting projects, deploying a budget of over USD 100 million, and with USD 1.24 billion anticipated funding leveraged for developing countries.

Working with a global network of National Designated Entities, 800+ Network Members, and Climate technology leading partners, CTCN acts as a catalyst and connector between all stakeholders, holding a unique convening capacity, capable of influencing and shaping innovative climate action. 

Through its new resource mobilization strategy, the Centre is now looking forward to establishing new partnerships with the private sector and philanthropic organizations to unlock more resources to address climate change mitigation, adaptation and resilience in the global South and developing countries. 

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