Geneva : Brace yourselves for a revolution at the 28th UN climate change conference (COP28) happening in Dubai, from November 30 to December 12. In an unprecedented move, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has partnered with the International Chamber of Commerce, the International Trade Centre, and the World Trade Organization to introduce the “Trade House Pavilion.” It’s not just a venue; it’s a fusion of two powerful worlds – climate action and trade policy.

The Trade House Pavilion: Where Visions Align

For the first time in COP history, the ‘Trade House Pavilion’ is set to become the heart of an extraordinary convergence. It’s the birthplace of discussions that promise to redefine the climate agenda for developing countries. What’s on the menu? Policy options that hold the potential to propel climate action forward while nurturing sustainable development.

A Call for Unified Action

UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan couldn’t have said it better: “Climate and trade policies need to work together.” As the world grapples with the devastating effects of global warming, it’s high time for trade to step onto the climate action stage, and not just as a bystander. UNCTAD and its partners have come together to shine a spotlight on this crucial synergy.

Crafting a Low-Carbon Future

The ‘Trade House Pavilion’ is your window into a future where trade fuels the journey toward a low-carbon economy. The secret recipe? Coordinated, inclusive approaches that expedite a global shift to sustainability. It’s not just talk; it’s action. Expect expert panel discussions to dive deep into key topics:

1. Just Energy Transition: Exploring ways to transition to clean energy from a development perspective.
2. Eco-Friendly South-South Trade: Leveraging environmentally preferable goods and services for climate-friendly exchanges.
3. Nation-Determined Contributions in Action: Putting trade-related strategies to work for global climate commitments.

A Dance of Trade and Climate

The connection between trade and climate change is impossible to ignore. About a quarter of all carbon dioxide emissions originate from trade-related activities – the production and distribution of goods and services worldwide. Collaboration becomes a necessity as we work together to reduce trade-related emissions and reach the Paris Agreement targets.

Trade is not just part of the problem; it’s a powerful solution. It can expedite the transition to clean energy and support low-emission development. With the right push, it can provide access to eco-friendly goods, cutting-edge technologies, and essential knowledge to drive innovation and build capabilities for climate mitigation and adaptation.

Balancing Act: Trade Policies Meet Climate Policies

Yet, the interface between climate-related policies and trade measures can be complex, often with substantial impacts on development. Understanding the intertwined relationship is paramount. We need to grasp the co-benefits and trade-offs to ensure that policy designs align with the goal of a just transition.

Challenges in the Developing World

For developing countries, the path to mitigation, adaptation, and low-carbon economies is laden with challenges. Financial constraints, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to crucial technologies and expertise can be formidable obstacles. A just transition must provide not only climate-focused solutions but also development opportunities.

The Call for Collaboration

Chantal Line Carpentier, head of UNCTAD’s trade, environment, climate change, and sustainable development branch, emphasizes the importance of cohesive pro-development climate and trade measures. “We must work together to explore innovative solutions that leverage trade as a force for good,” she says. UNCTAD is dedicated to partnering with all stakeholders to craft policy options that allow developing nations to embrace emerging trade opportunities while adapting to climate change and advancing their structural transformation.

As we stand on the threshold of COP28, the ‘Trade House Pavilion’ beckons, poised to reshape the global landscape by merging the realms of climate and trade policy. The world is invited to become part of this groundbreaking journey towards a harmonious and sustainable future.