22 September 2019: On the eve of the UN Secretary-General’s Climate Action Summit, the 11th High-Level Assembly of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) to reduce Short-lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs) discussed climate and clean air action needed on the ground and members’ ambition for further implementation.

The 11th meeting of the CCAC High-Level Assembly took place in New York, US, on 22 September 2019, and was attended by high-level representatives of governments and international and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The CCAC is a voluntary international coalition of governments, international organizations, private sector representatives and NGOs, and aims to: reduce emissions of SLCPs; avoid millions of premature deaths; promote food and energy security; and address near-term climate change.

On air pollution and health, speakers stressed the loss of lives and economic costs due to poor air quality, and how this can be a lever for enhanced and fast climate action. They also discussed progress in monitoring air quality and addressing SLCPs, and the need to evaluate the benefits of climate change action through a well-being lens.

On cooling and efficiency, ministers reported on investments in efficient and climate-friendly refrigeration and cooling, highlighting the rising demand for cooling caused by climate change and growing cities. They drew attention to the Biarritz Pledge initiated at the G7 Summit and its call for support of the CCAC’s Efficient Cooling Initiative.

On agriculture and food systems, participants reported on efforts to reduce methane and black carbon emissions, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness on agriculture climate solutions that balance the need for ensuring food security and poverty alleviation. They also noted the importance of healthy, low-carbon diets and of reducing food waste.

Taking stock of the CCAC’s work launched at the 2014 UN Climate Summit, representatives from the private sector described integrated solutions to reduce methane emissions in the oil and gas industry. They highlighted private sector efforts to reduce climate and air pollutant emissions from freight, and called on countries to join a ‘Global Methane Alliance.’

In the closing session, participants adopted the 2030 Vision Statement committing members to “drive and respond to scientific and political progress to maintain an atmosphere that enables people and the planet to thrive – a stabilized climate with warming limited to 1.5°C and drastically reduced air pollution.”

Members agreed to add this statement to the CCAC Framework Document and to extend the duration of the Coalition’s mandate until the end of 2030. Several members pledged additional financial support to the Coalition’s work. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) was welcomed as the CCAC’s newest CCAC state partner. [IISD Coverage of the 11th CCAC High-Level Assembly][CCAC website]