Digital Transformation for NDCs – from Foundations to Future-Ready AI

                    

                

            

    

        

                                        

                        

            

                        

        Partner: UNDP
November 16, 2024, 13:00-13:45
WGEO Pavilion    

                        

        Digital transformation is increasingly recognized by countries as essential for meeting their climate commitments in Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and achieving the broader goals of the Paris Agreement. With support from financial partners, INGOs, and technical partners, digital tools are proving vital in scaling and accelerating climate action across three key areas: 

a) Foundational Policy and Strategy for Digital-Driven Green Transitions 
Countries are implementing national digital strategies and conducting readiness assessments to establish a foundation for climate-focused digital transformation. Digital Roadmaps are being developed to identify targeted interventions that drive green transitions in key sectors like sustainable energy, low-emission transport, and biodiversity conservation. 

b) Strengthening Core Digital Infrastructure for Climate Action 
Robust digital infrastructure is crucial for NDC transparency, planning, monitoring, and climate finance access. To meet the Enhanced Transparency Framework under the Paris Agreement, countries are building digital systems to improve NDC tracking and reporting across sectors. Digital carbon registries are also being set up to support carbon markets under Article 6, enabling national carbon credit management and interoperability with global systems, often through customizable, open-source solutions. 

c) Utilizing Advanced Digital Technologies for Nature and Biodiversity Solutions 
Advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, are enhancing the monitoring and valuation of nature-based solutions (NBS), essential for biodiversity conservation and bioeconomic growth. Digital traceability systems are also being developed to increase transparency and trust in sustainable supply chains, empowering communities and strengthening biodiversity finance. 

Achieving impactful digital transformation in climate action requires investments not only in technology but also in governance, skills, and collaborative ways of working. Sharing knowledge and providing mutual support between countries and organizations will be key to accelerating adoption, from foundational policy development to core infrastructure and advanced technology applications. 

This panel discussion convenes representatives from three countries, each at a unique stage in their digital transformation journey for NDCs. Panelists will share experiences on leveraging digital tools for climate action, including NDC tracking, digital registries, and MRV (Measurement, Reporting, and Verification) systems. Topics will include key challenges across stages of digital transformation: (1) assessing needs, (2) getting started, (3) post-launch adoption and maintenance, and (4) integrating advanced technologies such as AI. The session will highlight lessons learned, the role of technical support, and address current gaps and future needs.