Tracking Global Adaptation: Indicators and LDC Priorities at COP29 | CGIAR Climate Impact Platform Webinar #6

As the global community converges on COP29, the focus has shifted from defining an overarching goal for climate adaptation to identifying indicators that can be applied globally to measure progress toward the agreed targets and support their effective implementation. Climate change poses an existential threat, particularly for the world’s most vulnerable populations. In October, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) appointed 78 experts to refine the mapping of existing indicators that were submitted by countries and observer organisations in July and August 2024. The framework of the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) includes seven thematic
targets and four on the adaptation policy cycle. Two CGIAR Climate scientists have been nominated to join this team of technical experts under the United Arab Emirates–Belém work programme on indicators.

The success of COP29’s adaptation agenda hinges on its ability to facilitate both the measurement of progress and the implementation of actionable strategies, reflecting a deep understanding of the diverse challenges different regions face. The outcomes will facilitate a decision on adaptation indicators under the GGA at COP30, making it imperative that efforts to measure and implement adaptation actions reflect the realities and needs of those on the frontlines of climate impacts.

In this evolving context, the CGIAR Climate Impact Platform is convening a webinar to explore how to effectively measure and implement the agreed targets under the GGA without causing undue reporting burden. This discussion will focus on the ambitions of global negotiations and the tangible needs of Least Developed Countries (LDCs), which often bear the brunt of climate change while contributing the least to its causes. Adaptation involves managing risks and enabling vulnerable communities to thrive in a changing climate. For LDCs, this means securing the resources, knowledge, and support necessary to implement effective adaptation strategies that align with their development goals.

This webinar will bring together four expert voices to explore a series of key considerations for identifying effective global indicators that track progress on adaptation and takes into account the needs of LDCs. The discussion will underscore the critical role of researchers, policymakers, and negotiators in shaping processes that are not only comprehensive but also equitable and actionable.

Dr Timo Leiter, from the Grantham Research Institute at the London School of Economics (LSE), will speak on the status of the UNFCCC process and the work of the expert group to develop indicators, especially the expert group on the four targets around the policy cycle which he co-chairs.

In addition, Dr Luckson Zvobgo, postdoctoral research fellow, at the Africa Climate and Development Initiative, University of Cape Town, will draw upon a recent blog he co-authored with Dr Leiter to highlight key considerations that must be addressed to ensure that adaptation indicators are realistic, actionable, and reflective of the varying needs of different regions and sectors, especially the LDCs priorities.

Dr Cristina Rumbaitis del Rio, Senior Advisor for Adaptation and Resilience at the United Nations Foundation, will offer expert commentary based on LDCs’ expectations as they approach COP29, and how to elevate adaptation ambition and    action through the GGA and COP-29 and beyond.