• GIZ took the lead at the Climate and Clean Air Conference 2023 in Bangkok, where global leaders converged to spearhead climate solutions.
• GIZ, via the SFF Air Quality Management – Climate Change project, co-organised a session to explore opportunities on related issues for regional collaboration in Southeast Asia.
• The panel examined five vital questions in the spirit of collaboration.

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) Gmbh took centre stage at the Climate and Clean Air Conference 2023 held at the UNCC in Bangkok, Thailand, from 29 May to 2 June 2023. This dynamic assembly brought together brilliant minds, influential policymakers, and dedicated organisations, all bound by a shared commitment to pioneer ingenious climate change solutions.

GIZ, via the Integrated Approaches for Air Quality Management & Climate Change in Southeast Asia – Preparation of a Regional Approach project (SFF Air Quality Management – Climate Change), co-organised a pivotal session titled “Gaps and Opportunities of a Regional Collaboration for Integrated Air Quality Management and Climate Change Mitigation in Southeast Asia”. GIZ experts shared their insights alongside esteemed panellists from the ASEAN Working Group Climate Change (AWGCC), the World Bank, Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), UNESCAP, Clean Air Asia (CAA), and the Collaborating Centre for Clean Air and Climate Change (CCCACC).

The panel examined five vital questions in the spirit of collaboration:

1. Obstacles and Key Components of a Regional Agreement: The obstacles to a regional agreement encompass diverse regulatory frameworks and socio-economic priorities. Essential enabling factors involve harmonised policies, data sharing, and joint capacity building. Key components of the agreement entail unified air quality targets, shared emissions reduction commitments, and cross-border cooperation.
2. Integration of Air Quality Management and Climate Change Mitigation: The deliberations highlighted the dual benefits of cleaner air and climate action. This integrated approach unlocks synergies, drawing additional funding and reinforcing regional cooperation. By aligning with existing targets such as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Net Zero objectives, a robust alliance can be forged.
3. Financing Air Quality and Climate Action: Financing mechanisms should span public-private partnerships, innovative funding sources, and judicious utilisation of climate funds. Engaging the private sector and nurturing international collaboration are pivotal to securing requisite resources.
4. Contributions to International Collaboration: As ardent proponents of sustainable development, the collective organisations are poised to advance international collaboration. Leveraging prowess in project management, capacity building, and policy advocacy, all entities stand ready to promote stakeholder dialogue, share best practices, and extend technical support with a mutual goal of facilitating the development of a potent regional agreement.
5. Communication Strategy: Persuading decision-makers and the public necessitates clear narratives. By highlighting enhanced public health, economic growth, and global responsibility, every organisation can galvanize support for air quality management and climate change mitigation.

Additionally, the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) collaborated with Global Methane Pledge (GMP) countries and supporters to strengthen engagement and coordination, track progress, monitor policy actions and project successes, maintain and update resources, provide direct support through one-on-one advice, engage participants and supporters through CCAC hubs, meetings, the Scientific Advisory Panel, and ministerial engagements.

This conference ignited inspiring conversations and united collaborative fervour, steering us toward a world nurtured by sustainable ideals.