In an important step recognising the specificity of mountains in climate change adaptation and mitigation, an “Expert Dialogue on Mountains and Climate Change” was held in Bonn (Germany) on 5 June 2024.
The Expert Dialogue, decided at the last Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP28), took place at the 60th session of the subsidiary bodies to the UNFCCC.
The aim of the meeting was to enhance the understanding at international level of the impacts of climate change on mountains and downstream communities. Delegates then explored solutions to help strengthen the resilience of mountain ecosystems, including ways to accelerate climate action.
Secretary General Alenka Smerkolj spoke about the regional experiences of the Alpine Convention during a panel discussion. She presented the foundations of the Convention and its climate change activities, including the Alpine Climate Target System 2050 and the Climate Action Plan 2.0. She further outlined how these documents provide a roadmap for adaptation and mitigation in the Alps, focusing on cross-sectoral hotspots like nature-based solutions, energy, and lifestyles.
“This international expert meeting is an important milestone in elevating mountains on the global stage. It was a pleasure to present the experiences of the Alpine Convention and exchange with international experts on the role of mountains in climate mitigation and adaptation,” praised Secretary General Smerkolj.
The Alpine Convention was also represented at a side event organised in the framework of the Mountain Partnership the previous day on “Mobilising the Mountain Partnership countries for addressing climate change” during which the Secretary General gave a statement. The event sought to raise awareness among, and foster dialogue between, governments to help mainstream mountain-related issues under the UNFCCC.
On both occasions, representatives of mountain countries and international organisations advocated for the expert dialogue to become a recurring format within the UNFCCC.
