*[Enwl-eng] CAN EECCA Newsletter: Sacrifices to the Coal, Solar Boom in India, and Trillions for Just Transition

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Socio-environmental community engagement for sustainable development in Armenia (AM) The NGO "Center for Community Consolidation and Support," a member of CAN EECCA in Armenia, has partnered with the Yerevan office of the Heinrich Böll Foundation to launch a program aimed at enhancing the social and environmental sustainability of three Armenian communities. The project focuses on developing activists' skills, providing mentorship, and strengthening dialogue between residents and local authorities. The goal is for these trained activists to design and implement civic campaigns to effectively address local challenges. “Foreign agents”: Inside the Russian climate movement taking the government to court Russia's war against Ukraine has led to even stricter laws on dissent within the country, yet activists have still managed to launch Russia’s first-ever climate lawsuit. Environmental groups like Ecodefense! have faced significant repression, including being labeled as "foreign agents," which subjects them to heavy fines and restrictive measures. The climate case, filed in September 2022, challenges Russia’s inadequate climate strategy but faces substantial risks from government crackdowns, underscoring the growing challenges for civil society in Russia. Uzbek president invites Central Asia nations to take united stance at COP29 in Baku During the sixth Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Heads of State, Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev urged Central Asian nations to present a united front at the upcoming COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan this November. He stressed the importance of jointly addressing regional environmental challenges, such as the Aral Sea disaster, and proposed the development of a Program for Sustainable Development and a Regional Strategy for Water Resource Management. Mirziyoyev also highlighted ongoing regional energy projects focused on increasing electricity generation, advancing nuclear energy, and expanding hydrocarbon supplies.  Inefficient hydropower plants, mismanaged irrigation, and corruption: what’s destroying the Syr Darya and how to stop it (RU) Ecologist Evgeny Simonov from the "Rivers Without Borders" foundation spoke with Azattyk journalist Petr Trotsenko about the critical issues affecting the Syr Darya River. He highlighted that the river’s ecosystem has been severely disrupted by dams, pushing many fish populations to the brink of extinction, and that new hydropower projects are exacerbating the problem. Simonov stressed the need for more efficient technologies and water resource management practices that prioritize environmental protection to resolve these issues. On the black shores: a report from a Chukotka village sacrificed to the coal industry (RU) In the Chukotka village of Beringovsky, residents are suffering due to the coal industry: coal dust pollutes the air, soil, and water, disrupting the traditional way of life and harming the health of the villagers. Despite promises from the "Beringpromugol" company to resolve the situation, the quality of life in the village continues to decline. Activists are striving to defend the community's rights but face significant pressure and indifference. Gender and natural disasters: measures in Kyrgyzstan remain on paper Despite efforts in Kyrgyzstan, measures to protect vulnerable groups from the effects of natural disasters remain largely unimplemented. Women and children are particularly susceptible to the impacts of climate change, a situation worsened by economic inequality and limited access to resources. Experts argue that it is essential not only to consider gender aspects in the development of climate strategies but also to strengthen the role of women in decision-making processes. The 2023 Energy Transparency Index: Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine, and Romania The recently released third edition of the "2023 Energy Transparency Index" assesses the transparency and accountability of the energy sectors in Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine, using Romania as a benchmark for comparison. The analysis shows that Romania has the highest transparency score (86, A-), while Georgia (73, B-) and Moldova (57, C-) have improved their scores by 12 and 2 points, respectively, compared to 2021. Ukraine, however, has experienced a sharp decline due to the impact of the war, with its score dropping to 38 (F), down by 31 points, highlighting the critical importance of transparency for the country's recovery and investment attraction in the energy sector.  SOS Taldykol: Why is it important for Kazakhstan to protect lakes in Astana Despite protests from residents and environmental activists, the destruction of the Malyy Taldykol natural lake system in Astana continues. Authorities insist that the work is solely for the construction of a heating pipeline and promise the development of an eco-park, but activists fear that high-rise buildings will eventually replace the lakes. Environmentalists warn that backfilling the lakes with earth and pumping water out of them could lead to ecological imbalances, flooding, and other serious environmental threats to Kazakhstan's capital.  Environmental issues in Central Asia demand inclusive approach across three UN Rio conventions As Central Asia faces increasing challenges from climate change, land degradation, and biodiversity loss, the region's environmental strategies have yet to fully implement the comprehensive approach outlined in the UN Rio Conventions on Biodiversity, Climate Change, and Desertification. Despite some progress, the interconnectedness of these issues necessitates a more balanced and integrated approach, particularly as Central Asia's glaciers melt, land degradation accelerates, and biodiversity suffers. Experts emphasize the need for stronger, coordinated efforts across the region to address these pressing environmental challenges effectively.  Climate change response in Asia and Pacific held back by insufficient data Policy makers in Asia and the Pacific are struggling to collect and analyze the data needed to effectively respond to climate change, hindering efforts in the region most vulnerable to its impacts. A new survey by the Asian Development Bank revealed that many national statistical offices lack the capacity and resources to gather crucial climate data, resulting in gaps in understanding and responding to climate risks. Without high-quality, geographically specific data, it is difficult for the region to design targeted and effective climate policies.

World Climate News "We won't solve the climate crisis by producing more and more" — Interview with protesters against Tesla factories in Germany (RU) Activists from the group TESLA STOPPEN! in Germany are protesting the construction of Tesla factories, claiming that electric vehicle production contaminates groundwater, leads to deforestation, and harms local communities. In an interview with Green Portal, they questioned the company's environmental and social responsibility. TESLA STOPPEN! advocates for a rethinking of mobility and a more equitable use of natural resources, and despite facing pressure and legal challenges, they are committed to continuing their protests and fighting for their goals. COP29 President’s first letter outlining Baku priorities: CAN response Climate Action Network (CAN) has released a response to the first letter from COP29 President, Azerbaijan's Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Mukhtar Babayev, to the parties and participants of the upcoming global climate summit in Baku. CAN, the world’s largest network of climate organizations and groups, welcomes the emphasis placed by the COP29 President on climate finance but expresses concern over the insufficient attention given to a just transition to low-carbon development. CAN stresses that developed countries must provide trillions of dollars for adaptation, compensation for losses, and energy transitions in developing countries. Less than 5% of climate measures have succeeded over the past 20 years: first global assessment An international research team conducted the first comprehensive global evaluation of 1,500 climate policy measures from 41 countries over two decades, revealing that many policies have failed to achieve significant emission reductions. The study, published in Science, identified only 63 successful cases, with an average emission reduction of 19%, primarily due to well-designed policy mixes that include tax and price incentives. The research highlights the importance of combining complementary policy instruments, such as carbon taxes and subsidies, to achieve substantial emission reductions, with detailed insights available through the interactive "Climate Policy Explorer."  Solar boom in India India saw a substantial solar energy boom in the first half of 2024, adding 14.9 GW of solar capacity, a 282% year-on-year increase. This growth underscores India’s accelerated commitment to renewable energy, fueled by favorable policies and increased investments, positioning the country as a key player in the global renewable energy arena. However, challenges such as grid connectivity and project delays persist, and must be addressed to achieve India’s ambitious goal of 280 GW of solar capacity by 2030. These 7 cities are tackling heatwaves with innovative solutions Cities worldwide are increasingly implementing innovative solutions to combat the rising temperatures caused by heatwaves, with urban areas like Sydney, Paris, and Los Angeles leading the way. Strategies include planting millions of trees, creating green rooftops, and using reflective materials like white paint on streets to reduce heat absorption. Notable examples include Seville's "policy of shade," Paris's creation of "cool islands," and Medellin's network of green corridors, all aimed at making urban spaces more livable during extreme heat.  Keeping 1.5C global warming target alive hangs on governments not tech, study warns A new study warns that achieving the Paris Agreement target of limiting global warming to below 1.5°C is becoming increasingly unlikely, primarily due to the insufficient implementation of climate policies in some countries. While advancements in green energy technology have accelerated, the capacity of governments—particularly in lower-income regions—to enforce critical policies like carbon pricing remains a significant barrier. The study underscores that even with the most ambitious efforts, global warming is likely to exceed 1.5°C, highlighting the urgent need for stronger international support and political commitment to drive global decarbonization. Behind the scenes with the environmental lawyers who are taking Shell’s Board of Directors to court ClientEarth, an environmental law organization, has filed a groundbreaking lawsuit against Shell's Board of Directors, accusing them of failing to adopt a climate strategy in line with the Paris Agreement. Supported by investors holding shares in Shell, the lawsuit argues that the Board's inadequate management of climate risks leaves the company vulnerable to significant future liabilities as global regulations and market conditions evolve. The case raises concerns that Shell's continued investment in fossil fuel projects could lead to stranded assets and financial losses, while Shell denies the allegations, insisting its climate targets align with the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement. We must restore nature to avoid global catastrophe, warns biodiversity summit president Colombia’s environment minister, Susana Muhamad, cautions that focusing exclusively on reducing carbon emissions without simultaneously restoring natural ecosystems could lead to catastrophic global warming and societal collapse. As the president of the upcoming UN biodiversity COP16 summit, she stresses the urgent need to elevate the political importance of nature conservation alongside decarbonization efforts. Muhamad calls on global governments and the private sector to fulfill their funding commitments for biodiversity restoration, underscoring that both climate action and ecosystem recovery are essential to stabilizing the planet.  BBC accused of doing PR for major polluters The BBC has faced accusations of "greenwashing" major polluters through its in-house studio, BBC StoryWorks, which has produced content promoting the environmental credentials of fossil fuel companies, agricultural giants, and petro-states. Critics argue that by leveraging the BBC's trusted reputation, the studio is misleading the public and compromising the broadcaster's editorial integrity, as this content often closely resembles standard journalism. This approach, driven by financial pressures on the BBC, risks undermining its credibility and placing it on the wrong side of history in the global effort to combat climate change. Massive Attack castigate music industry over climate inaction: “We don’t need to talk. We need to act” Massive Attack's Robert Del Naja has urged the music industry to take immediate action against its environmental impact, highlighting the significant carbon emissions produced by touring and fan travel. The band is setting a new standard with their upcoming hometown event in Bristol, titled Act 1.5, which they claim will be the world’s first large-scale music festival powered entirely by renewable energy. Inspired by the 2015 UN climate treaty, the event will attract 30,000 fans and feature performances by artists such as Killer Mike and Lankum. Opportunities

International seminar on “Decarbonization of the electric power industry in global issues of international RES and balancing” The 1st International Seminar on “Decarbonization of the Electric Power Industry in Global Issues of International RES and Balancing,” scheduled for 11 September and held online, will focus on the development and integration of renewable energy sources (RES) into modern energy systems. The seminar aims to facilitate the exchange of knowledge on forecasting RES, balancing energy systems, and managing electricity demand while exploring cutting-edge technologies like hydrogen and energy storage systems (ESS). Organized by QAZAQ GREEN Association and Gubkin University, the event will also cover smart energy concepts, microgrids, and the modernization of energy markets. The Central Asia Youth for Water Network is welcoming new members If you are between 18 and 35 years old and a resident or citizen of Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, or Uzbekistan with an interest in water-related issues, you are invited to join this dynamic network of young professionals and water advocates. CAY4W seeks to foster an inclusive movement that promotes a culture of peace through shared resource management, while upholding fundamental values such as human rights, dignity, and social justice. October 12, 2024 — International Youth Climate Adaptation Day The Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) will host International Youth Climate Adaptation Day on October 12, 2024, the largest annual event of its kind, bringing together young people from over 100 countries. This day is dedicated to mobilizing, showcasing, and celebrating the potential of youth in developing and accelerating climate adaptation solutions. Young people worldwide are encouraged to participate in various activities, including the "My Adaptation Solution" video competition and organizing Youth Climate Adaptation Lighthouse Events.  Invitation to Media for coverage of the UN Climate Change Conference The UNFCCC secretariat invites media organizations to apply for workspace and facilities to cover the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) taking place from November 11-22, 2024, in Baku, Azerbaijan. Media attendance is welcomed at local, regional, and international levels; however, due to limited facilities, approvals will be granted based on applications submitted online by the October 14, 2024, deadline. Media accreditation began on June 2 and is currently open. Climate Catalysts Mentorship Programme This initiative is designed to empower young people in climate action. Through interactive courses, workshops, and bootcamps, participants will develop technical and soft skills to enhance their climate projects, including storytelling, community building, and policy development. The program also offers networking opportunities through thematic channels and practical guidance on scaling project impact and securing funding. True Blue Fellowship This programme offers mentorship, capacity building, and up to $2,500 in funding for 10 youth-led projects that use creative arts to address ocean, waterways, and climate change issues in local communities. Open to young people aged 13-24 worldwide, the Fellowship supports new or emerging projects that co-create with local communities and have a tangible environmental impact. Applications are due on September 1st, and participants, whether selected or not, will gain access to valuable resources for grant writing, project management, and fundraising. Call for Project Proposals from the GGF Small Grants Program in Central Asia (RU) The Global Greengrants Fund Small Grants Program has announced a call for project proposals from public environmental organizations and initiative groups in Central Asia, focusing on projects aimed at environmental justice, climate change adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and other environmental initiatives. There are three types of grants available: for in-country projects, regional projects, and travel grants. Applications to participate in COP29 in Baku will be accepted until September 15, with the general application period open until October 1, 2024. Grants for local cross-border investigative journalist teams The EU-supported Local Cross-Border Investigative Journalism Programme is offering grants for investigative teams of journalists and news outlets from at least two different European countries. Grants, ranging from €2,000 to over €10,000, will support cross-border investigations on topics like housing, waste, tourism, and mobility. The application deadline is September 26, 2024, with a subsequent deadline on November 7, 2024. Grants from the Earth Investigative Programme This Programme offers grants for cross-border teams of professional journalists and news outlets to investigate environmental issues related to Europe. The program aims to document illegal, unreported, and unregulated environmental abuses that cross national borders, with stories required to be published in at least two different countries, one of which must be in Europe. The grant covers expenses such as logistics and legal support, with €400,000 available per call, and the next application deadline is October 24, 2024.

From: CAN EECCA Sent: Tuesday, August 27, 2024 4:00 PM Subject: CAN EECCA Newsletter: Sacrifices to the Coal, Solar Boom in India, and Trillions for Just Transition

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