17 May 2017 – Meeting of Members

There was a lot of energy and enthusiasm from members to engage with and help refine the activities of the platform. Some of the key takeaways from the meeting were:

Providing guidance

Many members pointed out the need for common guidance to develop 2050 pathways as well as develop a strong rationale for their elaboration. This could be in a form of a handbook or briefing that will allow members and other interested parties, as starting points for entities intending to develop long-term low-GHG pathways.

Facilitating provision of support and capacity building

Taking note of the fact that many members will embark on the process to develop 2050 pathways, many participants pointed out to the need for financial and technical capacity. Some suggested that the platform work with Multilateral Development Banks and facilitate provision of support among members. The focus of the platform is on developing in-house capacity and there were suggestions for peer to peer exchange around some sectors that are particularly problematic for decarbonisation.

Intra member exchange, regional collaboration and engagement with front runners

There are positive examples of long-term low-GHG planning not just in countries but also in cities, regions and businesses. Participants suggested ways in which exchanges with the front runners could be enhanced, such as regional events. Mexico held a Latin America and the Caribbean workshop on long-term strategies for the implementation of the Paris Agreement in early June.

Building momentum

There were discussions around upcoming events and institutions where the Platform could be featured, including G7 and G20 Presidencies. Partnering with key coalitions like the High Ambition Coalition and the Climate Vulnerable Forum can also help to build momentum for the development of 2050 plans.