Monday 6th July, 2009: St. George’s University (SGU) is partnering with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Government of Grenada by hosting the 48th Executive Board Meeting of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).
Under the Kyoto Protocol, there are mechanisms which aim to address the problem of climate change by reducing green house gas emissions which cause increased temperatures. One of these mechanisms is the CDM which aims to reduce global emissions and at the same time, aid development in underdeveloped countries by promoting projects of this nature. These projects are generally financed by the western world but implemented in developing countries with the objective of promoting technology transfers and direct investment to developing countries.
The decision to hold the Executive Board Meeting (usually held in Bonn, Germany), in Grenada is based on Grenada’s recognition of the importance of CDM. With CDM projects being few in the Caribbean, the meeting presents a magnificent opportunity for awareness about this unique, project-based mechanism and outreach in the Caribbean. Says Mr. Daniele Violetti, Secretary to the CDM Board,
“Active participation by the region will undoubtedly create a better understanding of the tremendous benefits to be gained.”
As with all CDM Executive Board meetings, regulation of decisions taken by the Board on projects as well as the formation and implementation of policy remain of paramount importance. A key objective of this particular meeting is to foster regional involvement and exposure to the CDM process, hence Grenada as a choice of location.
In attendance will be the 20 members of the Executive Board from various regions of the world, including Vice Chairman of the CDM Board, Mr. Clifford Mahlung from Jamaica and Mr. Hugh Sealy – Associate Professor, St. George’s University and Energy and Sustainable Development Advisor, Ministry of Finance, Planning, Economy, Energy, Foreign Trade and Cooperatives.
The 10 days of activities will begin with an Executive Board Retreat on July 11th & 12th followed by an informal meeting on July 13th and 14th. Prime Minister Tillman Thomas will address the delegates on July 15th – the start date of the formal meeting which ends July 17th. On those days the discussions will be made available via webcast in a bid to foster worldwide interaction with the Executive Board. 30 Designated National Authorities (DNAs) have also been invited to attend a DNA forum on July 20th and 21st which will bring the activities to an end.
Outcomes are expected to impact stakeholders involved in CDM activities around the world including private scientists, government offices, any person involved in reduction of emissions and the generation of revenue from the same.
“Achievement of success,” says Mr. Violetti, “is three-pronged and will be achieved if mandatory items on agenda are completed; agreement is reached on policy issues regarding clarity and opportunity for CDM in the future; and last but not least the Caribbean develops a greater awareness of CDM and the incredible potential it harnesses.”
True to the spirit on which the institution was founded, St. George’s University extends a warm welcome to the delegates and is pleased to be a partner in this noble venture which encourages us all to “think beyond.”
