*[Enwl-eng] 🌍 CAN EECCA Newsletter: Grey skies of Central Asia, risky bet on hydropower and nuclear rising star
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Tue Dec 17 17:03:52 MSK 2024
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Climate Change and Energy News:
Weekly Digest by CAN EECCA
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Dear subscribers,
We are pleased to bring you a post-COP compilation of news on energy transition and adaptation to a changing climate in our region and the world.
In this issue, we have collected key developments and ideas that have caught our attention. If we've missed anything, we welcome your comments - we're always open to feedback.
Stay up to date on the latest climate news with us,
CAN EECCA team
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News from the EECCA Region
EECCA at COP29: Between Global Ambitions and Regional Realities
The geographical and cultural proximity of Azerbaijan, the COP29 host, enabled Eastern Europe, Caucasus, and Central Asia (EECCA) countries to advance national interests and strengthen regional cooperation, but limited negotiating experience hindered their broader engagement. While some national delegations were active, their efforts often lacked alignment with COP29 objectives, and others remained passive, failing to define their role in global climate discussions.
CAN EECCA Calls on the Georgian Government to Respect Democratic Values
In recent days, Georgia has been engulfed in significant political unrest triggered by the government’s decision to suspend European Union accession talks until 2028. This decision has sparked widespread protests, with demonstrators voicing strong pro-European sentiments and raising concerns about democratic backsliding. While these protests are primarily focused on Georgia’s geopolitical future and democratic integrity, they also have profound implications for the country’s climate action, human rights, and environmental commitments.
Just Transition: Central Asia towards a sustainable future
At the COP29 climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Kyrgyzstan pavilion hosted the event “Just Transition in Central Asia: Pathway to Climate Resilience and Social Justice”, organized by CAN EECCA. Participants discussed concrete steps and challenges related to the region’s transition to a low-carbon economy, including decarbonization, the introduction of renewable energy, and the role of civil society.
“Green Legacy” of Kyrgyzstan Turns into Desert
In Kyrgyzstan, millions of trees are planted annually as part of the national campaign “Jashyl Muras”, claiming growth of forest areas, but the reality often diverges from official reports. Journalists have identified problems with the care of saplings, their high mortality due to lack of watering, violation of planting terms and conditions, which casts doubt on the effectiveness of the project. Despite loud claims about the trees taking root, significant areas of planting turned out to be dried and unmaintained, turning the initiative into formal PR without sustainable results.
Tajikistan: Rogun Dam is a white elephant in the making – report
The Rogun Dam project in Tajikistan, if completed to its maximum specifications, would impose severe economic and environmental costs, making its electricity uncompetitive compared to renewable alternatives, according to a report by Rivers Without Boundaries. Experts warn that continuing the project at its current scale would exacerbate regional ecological issues, contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, and hinder efforts toward decarbonization.
Nobel laureate on Kazakhstan’s net-zero goal: We need a “me first” campaign
Kazakhstan's journey to carbon neutrality by 2060 requires a grassroots approach, as Nobel laureate Raekwon Chung emphasizes empowering individuals and local communities to take ownership of green initiatives. Environmental challenges, including melting glaciers, desertification, and climate-induced migration, demand immediate attention, alongside urban infrastructure upgrades and sustainable business practices. While top-down policies dominate, projects like AEOK's campaigns and renewable energy solutions aim to engage younger generations and foster a "me first" ethos for sustainable change.
Kazakhstan: A voluntary carbon market grows from seed
Alim Sailybaev is pioneering Kazakhstan's voluntary carbon credit market by restoring degraded land in the Aral Sea region through innovative projects like planting saxaul and developing agroparks. His organization, Qazaq Carbon, aims to use carbon revenues as financial levers to promote sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and community welfare, despite challenges like low local carbon pricing and limited market infrastructure.
Well-Connected Private Investor Scoops Up Hydropower Rights in Georgia
Businessman Koka Kokolashvili, with family ties to Georgia's political elite, has obtained government contracts to develop at least 25 hydroelectric power plants despite lacking experience in renewable energy. These secretive deals, awarded under unclear circumstances, have sparked concerns over transparency, environmental impact, and local community benefits. Critics argue that Georgia’s renewable energy sector is becoming increasingly opaque, raising questions about who truly profits from its development.
Force of Nature or Negligence: Why Does Mudflow Damage in Kyrgyzstan Top Record Levels?
In 2024, Kyrgyzstan faced a record number of mudflows, resulting in significant loss of life and damage exceeding 1.2 billion soms. The main causes of the catastrophic consequences were heavy rains, insufficient work of local authorities and chaotic development in hazardous areas. The Ministry of Emergency Situations warns that due to climate change and lack of funds for prevention, the situation may worsen in the future.
Georgia's gas supply and decarbonization (GE)
The report analyzes the problems of Georgia's gas sector, including the economic efficiency and safety compliance of the gasification process, as well as their contradiction with the NECP objectives and the country's international commitments. It notes that current energy policies increase dependence on other countries and threaten energy security, requiring transformation of the sector for sustainable development. The village of Kvatsikhe is cited as an example of an alternative approach, where solutions that take into account environmental, social and economic factors are proposed.
Ukraine’s energy crisis holds a lesson for EU, Polish minister says
Poland, preparing to take over the EU Council presidency, sees Ukraine's resilience in rebuilding its energy infrastructure amidst war as a critical learning opportunity for Europe to enhance energy security and system transformation. Key priorities for Poland's presidency include supporting Ukraine's energy system, advancing its EU accession talks, and promoting a full withdrawal from Russian energy imports to bolster Europe's security.
Central Asia is losing the fight for clean air (RU)
Russia has seen a sharp rise in environmental problems, including an increase in oil pipeline accidents and predatory natural resource extraction. Kazakhstan faces catastrophic air pollution in key cities, as well as unsolved environmental incidents. Other Central Asian countries are taking steps towards sustainable development, for example through international partnerships and projects, but problems with air pollution, water supply and waste management continue to have a negative impact on people's lives and nature.
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World Climate and Energy News
Nuclear Power Was Once Shunned at Climate Talks. Now, It’s a Rising Star
Once dismissed as a climate solution, nuclear energy is now gaining global support, with 28 countries pledging to triple its capacity by midcentury to curb carbon emissions. The renewed interest is driven by its ability to provide reliable, carbon-free electricity, complementing intermittent renewables like wind and solar, though challenges like high costs, delays, and public opposition remain. While critics highlight safety and affordability concerns, proponents emphasize nuclear’s role in achieving climate goals and enhancing energy security, particularly in Eastern Europe and developing nations.
Trump vows to revive U.S. energy dominance with “drill, baby, drill” agenda
President-elect Donald Trump pledges to prioritize domestic energy production by easing drilling restrictions, expanding infrastructure, and boosting natural gas exports to solidify U.S. energy dominance. His agenda includes re-exiting the Paris Climate Accord, rolling back emissions regulations, and promoting fracking, while potentially limiting the Inflation Reduction Act's impact through tighter EV tax credits and tariffs on Chinese-made vehicles. Trump’s pro-energy strategy aims to deliver affordable energy, strengthen the economy, and enhance U.S. geopolitical influence, though it faces political and environmental challenges.
Japan targets 40-50% power supply from renewable energy by 2040
Japan wants renewable energy to account for up to 50% of its electricity mix by fiscal year 2040 with nuclear power taking up another 20%, according to a draft of its revised basic energy policy, as it makes a clean energy push while meeting rising power demand. As the world's second-largest importer of liquefied natural gas and a major consumer of Middle Eastern oil, Japan and its basic energy plans are drawing global attention from oil, gas and coal producers.
Oil and Gas Industry Positioned to Drive Geothermal Boom, IEA Finds
The International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights geothermal energy as a promising, low-emissions resource that could meet 15% of global electricity demand by 2050, with oil and gas industry expertise playing a crucial role in its expansion. Technological advancements could reduce geothermal costs by 80% by 2035, making it the cheapest dispatchable renewable energy source, while policy support could boost global investments to $2.5 trillion and create one million jobs by 2030.
From renewables to fossil fuels in Europe: How does your country generate electricity?
Over the past two decades, the EU has significantly reduced its reliance on nuclear and coal power, with nuclear energy dropping to 23% and coal to 12% of the electricity mix, while renewables have surged to 35%. Despite this shift, nuclear energy remains crucial in several countries, including France and Belgium, while Germany has completely phased it out in favor of a controversial hydrogen strategy. Renewables' rapid growth reflects the EU's commitment to climate neutrality by 2050, though challenges such as grid limitations and market volatility continue to impact energy systems and prices.
Green energy failure: UK spends over £1 billion this year to turn off wind farms and start up gas plants
The UK spent over £1 billion this year to turn off wind farms and activate gas plants due to grid infrastructure mismatches and outdated energy system rules, exposing flaws in renewable energy integration. Despite a 50% increase in offshore wind capacity, the lack of grid upgrades has led to inefficiencies, rising energy bills, and undermined decarbonization goals. This situation highlights the need for better infrastructure planning and serves as a cautionary tale for other nations pursuing hasty green energy transitions.
Want to try out climate fiction? Take your pick from the finalists of the first-ever fiction prize
The first-ever Climate Fiction Prize has unveiled a longlist of nine novels, all written by women, showcasing diverse narratives that place the climate crisis at the forefront. Notable works include 2024 Booker Prize winner Orbital by Samantha Harvey and debut novels like The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley, exploring themes from apocalyptic futures to resilience in the face of environmental disasters.
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Opportunities
Call for Applications: 3rd edition of the OSCE Women’s Peace Leadership Programme
The OSCE is calling for applications for the third edition of its Women’s Peace Leadership Programme (WPLP), focusing on the intersection of gender, climate, and mediation. The program aims to empower women in the OSCE region and Partners for Cooperation to take leadership roles in climate action, offering training on leadership, negotiation, and gender equality in environmental policies. Eligible women with at least seven years of experience in climate-related fields can apply by January 15, 2025, to participate in workshops, training in Vienna, and networking opportunities.
Call for Applications: Youth for Water and Climate Programme
The Youth for Water and Climate Programme (YWC) is inviting young people aged 18-30 from Romania, Greece, Lithuania, France, Bulgaria, Hungary, and the Netherlands to apply. Participants will attend two international workshops, receive mentorship, and join a community of practice focused on water and climate issues. Applications are due by December 20, 2024, and candidates must submit a short video and an essay to be considered for the program.
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From: CAN EECCA
Sent: Tuesday, December 17, 2024 5:00 PM
Subject: 🌍 CAN EECCA Newsletter: Grey skies of Central Asia, risky bet on hydropower and nuclear rising star
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