2 December 2014: Participants addressed challenges related to the scope and operationalization of equity approaches for the assessment and review of Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) at a side event at the Lima Climate Change Conference. Climate Action Network Canada (CAN-Rac) and Climate Action Network International (CAN International) organized the event, titled ‘Equity and Differentiation in the Context of INDCs: The State of the Debate.’

Tom Athanasiou and Siddharth Patak, both of CAN International, provided an overview of the proposed equity reference framework. Saying “the INDCs are going to fall far short,” Athanasiou proposed five high-level equity indicators to support a more ambitious and viable climate regime: adequacy; historical responsibility; capability; development need; and adaptation need. Athanasiou called for the 20th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 20) to the UNFCCC to close the 2020 ambition gap through: Annex I country commitments; a two-tiered approach combining mitigation and adaptation efforts; and agreement to safeguard future reviews of INDCs as part of the Paris agreement.

Patak stressed that the absence of proper, science-based assessments will result in self-differentiation and a “pledge and chat” regime that will severely curtail countries’ development options and will not hold wealthy countries responsible for “doing their fair share” of the transition effort. He said the proposed equity review can help to stabilize the climate system, minimize developmental differences between countries and transition to a low-carbon and resilient society.

Three negotiators then responded to the proposals. Xolisa Ngwadla, South Africa, raised concerns on self-differentiation in the INDC process, noting the need to include clear mitigation INDCs from Annex I parties and to recognize aggregate assessments by developing countries, and highlighted an African Group proposal on a principle-based equity assessment. Vicente Yu, the Philippines, speaking in an individual capacity, called for bridging the development gap while reducing emissions growth.

Everton Frask Lucero, Brazil, called for, inter alia, a strong agreement that can stand the test of time. He highlighted Brazil’s proposal for “concentric differentiation” to recognize mitigation efforts already underway in many developing countries, noting it could help leverage additional investments.

During the discussion, participants highlighted the need to, inter alia: promote intergenerational equity; and balance top-down and bottom-up approaches in implementation. [IISD RS ENBOTS Coverage] [IISD RS Coverage of Lima Climate Change Conference] [CAN International Event Announcement] [CAN-Rac Website]