Groundbreaking Climate Conference in Yerevan, Armenia
The first IncoNet EaP Policy Stakeholders Conference on Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) convened in Yerevan, Armenia on 15-16 May 2014, drawing a crowd of over 100 participants. Hosted by the National Academy of Sciences of Armenia (NAS RA), this conference focused on the Societal Challenge of Climate Change and aimed to fortify EU-EaP STI cooperation in addressing climate issues.
Formulating Recommendations for EU-EaP STI Cooperation
The conference's main goal was to create actionable recommendations to enhance the EU-EaP STI cooperation in the face of climate change. These recommendations are now sought to be integrated into current and upcoming agendas and funding instruments pertinent to STI actors engaged in cooperation.
Comprehensive Overview and Best Practice Examples
Presentations encompassed a wide array of topics, including international policies, initiatives, and programmes focusing on the region, such as UN-driven projects, EU-funded endeavors, and bilateral projects. The event highlighted numerous examples of best practices and projected pathways for future collaboration under H2020.
Rich Exchange of Knowledge and Networking
Nearly 60 policy makers and academic figures from EU member states and EaP countries interfaced with approximately 50 stakeholders from Armenia and international organizations. Discussions spanned from the perspectives of the Black Sea region to the implementation of climate change projects and involvement in brokerage events.
Diverse Stakeholder Participation
A myriad of representatives, including from the Clima East Project, the Austrian Red Cross, and UNDP, participated, laying the foundation for prospective cooperation in climate change endeavors.
Insightful Presentations and Discussions
With over 30 presentations delivered during the conference, attendees gained valuable insights into the current state and progressive actions against climate change. Topics ranged from "Sustainable Management of Pastures and Forests in Armenia" to the "European Multidisciplinary Seafloor and Water-Column Observatory."
Sharing of Conclusions and Learning Materials
The conference's conclusions, final programme, and a host of photos and presentations are now readily accessible online, providing a rich resource for those unable to attend or wishing to revisit the discussions.
Meeting Global Climate Goals: The Role of STI
One of the primary themes of the conference focused on the long-term climate goals, the challenges of international climate negotiations, and the critical role that science plays within this context.
Continuing the Dialogue
In the tradition of its predecessor projects, IncoNet EaP upholds the practice of organizing policy stakeholder conferences. These platforms are pivotal in ensuring sustained dialogue and facilitating actions on climate change and biodiversity, from regional cooperation in the South Caucasus to the international strategy on climate innovation.
Connecting Travel and Climate Initiatives
As climate change remains a pressing issue in global discourse, it intersects with the travel industry, inspiring new paradigms in sustainable tourism. Initiatives discussed in the conference could influence travel policies, promoting environmental stewardship and awareness among travelers, thereby bridging the gap between policy and practice in climate-adaptive travel.