The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has called for strong, inclusive and well-funded climate plans as Papua New Guinea reviews its next round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0).
Speaking at a national consultation workshop, Nicholas Booth, UNDP Resident Representative in Papua New Guinea, said the country must make climate action a part of all its development plans to cope with climate risks.
He thanked the Climate Change and Development Authority and other partners for supporting the consultation and described the NDC review as an important step in shaping the country’s future.
Booth said Papua New Guinea is very vulnerable to climate change and must make sure climate adaptation and mitigation are included in every sector.
“Nothing is more important in a country where climate change affects daily life than making sure the NDCs give us the right plan,” he said.
He added that the commitments must lead to real actions, policies, laws, funding, and clear ways to implement them.
Participants were asked to check whether the proposed NDC 3.0 targets are realistic, properly funded, and match national priorities.
Booth said energy access is one of the most important areas in the new plan.
He said many countries are on track to provide everyone with reliable, affordable and renewable energy, but PNG is behind.
The national grid only reaches a small part of the population.
Renewable energy is key to reaching about 70 percent of people by 2030.
Access to energy, he said, is important for schools, hospitals, businesses and daily life.
He also welcomed the focus on gender equality, social inclusion and youth empowerment in NDC 3.0.
Gender inequality, he said, is a major challenge in the country and women must have equal access to climate and energy programs.
With 60 percent of the population under 25, youth inclusion and support for people with disabilities must also be included.
Booth highlighted Papua New Guinea’s rich biodiversity and forests, saying they are important for nature-based climate solutions.
He encouraged participants to ensure these solutions are included in plans and matched with funding and government support.
He added that a green and blue economy could bring more opportunities for rural communities and make agriculture more climate resilient.
He warned that the success of the NDCs depends on enough funding and support from the government, private sector and development partners.
Participants were asked to give feedback to make sure the plans reflect the country’s needs and can be carried out successfully.
Booth said the consultation will help build a strong framework for Papua New Guinea’s climate action and its contribution to global efforts under the Paris Agreement.
