Update: Australian Engagement on International Climate Change UNFCCC COP26 – Mid Year Negotiations

Summary of Mid-year Negotiations

The first official session since COP25 in 2019 provided a much needed steppingstone to agreement on key issues of transparency and international carbon markets. Varying progress was made across 20+ ongoing negotiating issues.

Finalising implementation of the Paris transparency framework, which subjects all countries to a common, high level of scrutiny around the implementation of commitments, remains a key issue. Protecting common transparency requirements is a priority for Australia and the team will be working closely to maintain a strong position into COP26 and prevent unwinding of previous progress.

Discussions at the midyear session on rules for international carbon markets under Article 6 were constructive. Although key roadblocks remain to be resolved at COP26, we are encouraged by the trajectory of discussions. Australia is engaging actively, advocating for rules that support the generation and trade of high integrity offsets through robust and transparent arrangements.

There were a limited number of scheduled discussions on climate finance and adaptation at this session. There is a significant program to progress these important issues ahead of and at COP26.

Q and A Sessions with the Australian Delegation

We would like to extend the opportunity for further briefing on the outcomes of the mid-year negotiations including a live Question and Answer Session with the Australian UNFCCC COP26 Delegation. Please register via the links below to reserve a place. Note that these sessions will cover the same material and you should only register for one session. To allow for an open discussion, these sessions will not be recorded.

Session 1:

Date: Tuesday 27 July 2021
Time: 2:00 – 3.30 pm (Canberra Time)
RSVP: To book please click here (note, you will need to be logged in to view and rsvp).

Session 2:
Date: Thursday 29 July 2021

Time: 2:00 – 3:30 pm (Canberra Time)
RSVP: To book please click here (note, you will need to be logged in to view and rsvp).

COP Logistics

The UK, as incoming COP president, is preparing for an in-person COP26 with COVID−19 precautions in place. More information is set to be released regarding additional protocols including vaccinations, testing, and further guidance on quarantine requirements. Please continue to review the UK COP 26 website, and the UK COVID and Quarantine requirements.

The current Australian Government Policy regarding overseas travel is outlined on the Smartraveller Website as well as the Department of Home Affairs COVID-19 and the Border page.