UNDP survey results, May 2011

1. Results of the UNDP survey
“Assessment of capacities for low-carbon and climate resilient development”
Western Balkan countries
FINAL DRAFT
Prepared: May 2011
United Nations Development Programme,
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2. Bratislava Regional Centre
Contents
Background ................................................................................................................................................... 3
Conclusions:.................................................................................................................................................. 4
Results of the mapping survey: ..................................................................................................................... 9
Institutional capacity for climate change policy implementation ............................................................. 9
Participation in climate change negotiations: ........................................................................................... 9
National coordination mechanisms/National climate change committees .............................................. 10
Climate change departments/experts: ..................................................................................................... 12
Regional cooperation: ............................................................................................................................. 13
Legislation: ............................................................................................................................................. 14
Carbon emissions trading:....................................................................................................................... 16
Reporting, awareness and knowledge: .................................................................................................... 18
Adaptation:.............................................................................................................................................. 20
Low-carbon development: ...................................................................................................................... 22
Financial resources: ................................................................................................................................ 24
Monitoring and evaluation of climate change policy:............................................................................. 26
Summary of the survey results for UNMIC Kosovo .............................................................................. 27
Additional important things identified by the respondents: ................................................................ 32
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3. Background
A survey “Assessment of capacities for low-carbon and climate resilient development” was
conducted in late April, early May 2011 in five Western Balkan countries (Albania, Bosnia and
Herzegovina, the FYR1 of Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia). A less comprehensive one was
conducted for Kosovo2, as it is not a Party under UN Conventions, which results are presented in
this summary in a separate chapter.
The main goal of the survey was to understand better capacity issues that Western Balkan
countries face in responding to the new challenges of climate change, in particular as it relates to
formulating comprehensive approaches to ensure sustainable human development using
emerging opportunities.
The survey consisted of two parts – first, mapping the existing capacity of the countries and the
second, an open assessment with evaluation questions, answers to which will help to understand
better the context of that particular status3. The mapping was filled in with factual information,
while the survey was targeting a wide range of representatives in each country/entity.
The survey targeted representatives of the government, including ministries responsible for
development, economy, finance, energy, agriculture, forestry, transport, and environment, as
well as relevant agencies and institutions, industry associations and nongovernmental
organizations. The total number of respondents was 80. Almost half of the respondents come
from governmental organizations, and the rest from academia, private companies and
nongovernmental organizations. They come predominantly from environment (48.8%) and
energy (22.5%) sectors, but also 11% from areas connected with development and 20% other
sectors of economy. In terms of position, the respondent majority are senior (56.3%) and 28.1%
medium level, of which 54.3% are men (for UNMIC Kosovo 100% men). Bigger share of them
(81.4%) are indirectly involved in climate change policy formulation and 18.6% directly, while
58% are indirectly involved in implementation of the policy and 42% directly.
The survey was conducted electronically, it was anonymous and results are presented in an
aggregated format. Mapping is presented the way it was reported by each country’s respondent,
however in some areas there is still some missing information.
The results of the survey provide a basis for both host countries and donors to better address the
emerging issues that these countries face in addressing low-carbon and climate resilient
development, and point towards capacity gaps that may need to be addressed immediately or
need further in-depth analysis.
1
Here and hereafter also referred to as Macedonia
2
Here and hereafter referred in the context of the UN Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999)
3
A scoring system was used where 4 = very much, 1 = not at all
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4. Conclusions:
Strengthening and enhancement of existing capacity
Although there are some institutional capacities already in place to tackle the challenges of
climate change, further improvements are deemed necessary according to the survey.
Institutional capacity and stakeholder involvement in developing and implementing climate
change policies has been assessed as a very high priority by all the countries. The mapping
shows that some institutional capacity are already in place in all the countries , such as
established and operational National Focal Points and Designated National Authorities for CDM
projects approval; preparation of different reports; some strategic documents and legislation; and
functioning regional cooperation. However, even these areas need further improvement and
development as pointed out by all the respondents in the survey. For example, although the
Western Balkans countries have already made significant efforts in building institutional
capacities for participation in the Kyoto Protocol, they still face numerous barriers that inhibit
effective implementation of climate change mitigation policies and large-scale engagement in
current or future carbon trading mechanisms or internationally provided assistance. It is a fact
that there are operational Designated National Authorities in all of the countries. At the same
time, there are almost no existing Clean Development Mechanism projects.
The following conclusions were drawn from the survey. They are based on the information
provided by respondents of this study.
Broader participation in international climate change negotiations
Overall, more can be done to increase the number of negotiators, include more members with
better representation from different sectors, as well to increase the capacity to cover various
topics of the complex international climate change negotiations. Reaching a regional consensus
and coordination on certain negotiation positions is assessed as important or very important by
90% of respondents.
All five countries are non Annex I (developing countries) to the UNFCCC and non Annex B (do
not have legally binding mitigation commitments) to the Kyoto Protocol. All of them are
undergoing a process of accession to the European Union. As such, there are significant
similarities in their position in the climate change negotiation process, as well as opportunities
for regional cooperation.
In all five countries the responsibilities for the implementation of international and national
climate change related policy lays with ministries responsible for the environmental policy.
Some of the ministries with National Focal Points are responsible for spatial planning. However,
it is not clear to what extent the part of the ministry responsible for “spatial planning” is engaged
in climate change, or if an internal coordination mechanism exists.
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5. Enlarging departments/expert on climate change
To ensure cross-sectoral impact of climate change interventions, there is a strong need to have
specific climate change departments in key ministries, in particular in environment, energy,
agriculture and transport. Currently, dedicated departments for climate change mostly sit in the
ministries of environment with one or two experts in some other ministries or organizations.
Without any doubt, institutional and human capacities are one of the most important factors for
the success of any policy, especially such an innovative one as low-carbon and climate resilient
policy. In addition, more than 70% believe that if it is not possible to have a dedicated
department, at least some climate change experts on specific areas should be working in the key
ministries.
Establishment and improvement of coordination mechanisms on climate change
Coordination of development and implementation of climate change policies appears to be a
week point in all of the countries. There are no national climate change coordination
mechanisms established in the countries at the moment, and even if some national climate
change committees exist they are not functional. Nowadays, when climate change is not only
environmental issue, but rather a development issue, the need to engage all the ministries and
stakeholder is a must.
The institutional arrangements for transitioning to low-emission and climate resilient
development should first of all determine an institution or several institutions that would take the
leadership and responsibility for coordinating the process and establish a mechanism for cross-
sectoral cooperation and broader stakeholder participation. Majority of respondents assess as
very important to have a national coordination committee (NCC) (or similar) on climate change,
while at the same time emphasizing that the NCC should have sufficient authority and resources
to effectively coordinate climate change initiatives in the country and it should be inclusive.
Using lessons learned from regional cooperation
Regional cooperation in climate change has good history in the region. Regional cooperation
has been found as a key mechanism for successfully addressing climate change issues.
However the performance of existing regional mechanisms/platforms in addressing climate
change policy and programming needs was rated rather low. Evidently, based on the good
lessons learned in this area more could be achieved.
Regional cooperation brings enhanced opportunities for the countries to share knowledge and
best practices that would otherwise be generated through individual activities. Additionally,
regional approaches are a proven cost-effective way of performing any activities and projects in
this region. All the similarities amongst the Western Balkan countries: political, economical,
geographical as well as the ongoing regional activities imply that it is preferable to continue
cooperation on a regional basis, including on issues related to climate change – on both
mitigation and adaptation. At the same time, this approach is in line with the strategic approach
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6. of both the UNFCCC and the EC in supporting the region in responding to the climate change
challenge.
Challenges to introduce climate change related legislation
The mapping shows that there is still a lack of comprehensive climate change legislation, and
in some cases there are unclear connections between climate change policies and other energy
and environmental priorities and policies, including EU accession issues. It is even very
important that all existing development, sectoral, adaptation strategies are cohesive.
The respondents unanimously gave very high importance to the legislation of climate change
policy implementation. At the same time, they assess the capacity of the governments to
introduce needed climate change legislations and policies as still not sufficient. Additionally, the
extent to which climate change policies and laws are funded/resourced is assesses by the
majority as relatively low. Same applies for the ability to engage relevant stakeholders (e.g.,
private sector, communities, NGOs, etc.) in formulating climate change laws, policies and
implementation mechanisms; private sector preparedness to understand and implement climate
change laws; capacity of the government to ensure that climate change laws and policies are
adequately understood at the local level.
At the global level, the development of new international agreements on climate change is likely
to influence long-term decisions concerning national climate change policy in the Western
Balkans. On the other hand, preparation for accession to EU brings new environmental standards
and legislation to these countries. Alignment with the EU legislation in many cases supports the
UNFCCC requirements, however, it should be taken into account that the Western Balkan
countries are still non Annex I and non Annex B under the UNFCCC process.
For these countries it is important to find a way of benefiting from the new global low-carbon
and climate-resilient economy achieving economic growth, through defining and implementing
the right policies, such as investing in new technologies, making the right balance between
different sectors’ development, green jobs creation and receiving financial, technology and
capacity building support from the post 2012 international climate change assistance structures.
Low participation in carbon emissions trading
While the importance of the flexible mechanisms under the Kyoto Protocol for the
implementation of climate change policy is assessed in general as high, the preparedness of
the countries to take part in the negotiations on new market-based mechanisms is reported as
relatively low (more than 60%). As non Annex I Parties, the Western Balkan countries are
eligible to participate in the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) of the Kyoto Protocol. As
accession countries, they have to prepare to implement the EU ETS.
Although all the countries have in place operational Designated National Authorities, it was
reported only for two CDM projects registered under UNFCCC from the whole region.
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7. The proper implementation of the EU ETS requires a lot of capacity building for the government,
as well as the private sector. However, the preparedness of the countries to take part in the EU
ETS is reported as relatively low (more than 70%). There is little awareness of the private sector
on the EU ETS requirements. Only Montenegro and Serbia reported for some preparatory
activities to implement EU ETS.
Strengthening reporting, awareness and knowledge:
National expertise engaged in the preparation of the National Communication (NC) is
assessed in general as sufficient; however, the sustainability of the government in preparation
of the NC was rated as marginally sufficient. The countries are not well prepared to report on a
more frequent basis.
Having in place the mandatory and voluntary reports under the UN serves different purposes: (i)
strengthens national expertise in different areas; (ii) increases the public awareness on various
issues; (iii) provides information necessary to formulate national policies and measures in the
area; (iv) informs donors about the achievements and the needs of the countries.
It should be noted that reporting under UNFCCC post 2012 regime will become more
comprehensive and on a more frequent basis.
The National Capacity Self Assessment (NCSA) study, where in place, is not making a
significant difference in policy making according to the respondents.
Although some training was provided to the countries in climate change area (reported mainly
in GHG emissions inventories and CDM), the need for more trainings in various climate
change areas is very big. Still, the need for more GHG inventory training is assessed as high,
and the same applies for GHG projections, development of LEDS and NAMAs, carbon trading,
implementation of climate change related legislation, access to climate change finance, etc.
More actions on adaptation needed
The importance of adaptation strategy is unanimously rated very high. Although some
capacities and resources in the countries for implementation of the Adaptation Strategy/Action
Plan exist, in general they are assessed as relatively low. The regional cooperation was
identified as very useful when developing and implementing the Adaptation Strategy/Action
Plan. More than 55% assessed the capacity to mobilize international funding to help implement
the national adaptation strategy and action plan as not adequate and other 30% as adequate.
Time to transition to low-carbon development
One of the main problems with climate change policies is that governments and other
stakeholders do not realize that domestic GHG emission reduction measures could be
capitalized through participation in the global efforts to reduce emissions and in emissions
trading mechanisms. This may lead to missed opportunities for substantial financial flows from
the developed countries, improved efficiencies, new technologies, green jobs and better
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8. environmental quality. For example, although there is international financial, technology and
capacity building support envisaged under UNFCCC for countries developing and implementing
Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions, so far only Macedonia submitted a list of such to the
UNFCCC.
The transition to low emission development path in both developed and developing economies
has been recognized internationally as an imperative to stabilizing GHG concentrations in line
with the 2-degree temperature increase scenario. However, there is still limited practical
experience on designing and implementing comprehensive national low-emission development
strategies (LEDS), and no guidelines on the preparation of such strategies or of the nationally
appropriate mitigation actions (NAMAs) have been developed and adopted in the UNFCCC
process. At the same time, fast start financing committed by developed countries in Copenhagen
is already supporting countries in developing and implementing LEDSs and NAMAs, as well a
number of countries have initiated and developed LEDS or NAMAs.
The importance of low-emission development for the implementation of climate change policy is
considered by the majority as very high. However, besides Macedonia, no other country
submitted NAMAs to Appendix 2 of the Copenhagen Accord. Macedonia, Montenegro and
Serbia are undertaking steps towards development of LEDS/NAMAs with international support.
At the same time, the capacity of the governments to define and submit NAMAs to UNFCCC is
assessed by some 35% as good and by another 37% as not enough. Many of the respondents are
not aware of the political will to undertake ambitious NAMAs under post-2012 regime. The need
for international support of NAMAs is recognized by the majority of respondents.
The capacity of the government to develop Low-emission development strategy (LEDS) is
considered as low ( 60%) and sufficient (20%).
Lack of financial resources
The shortage of sustainable financial resources for climate change activities poses a key
barrier for action. The lack of national financial resources, as well as inefficient use and
coordination of the existing international financial resources is almost unanimously agreed upon
by all respondents. Although there is a wide range of funding institutions and on-going capacity
building initiatives, additional efforts are required to meet these countries’ needs.
More to be done on monitoring and reporting
The capacity to establish an efficient Measurement, Reporting and Verification (MRV) system
is assessed as not sufficient. Although monitoring and evaluation of implementation of climate
change policies is considered important, the existing system for GHG inventory is evaluated as
insufficient together with the monitoring system for the implementation of the national climate
change policy.
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9. Results of the mapping survey:
Institutional capacity for climate change policy implementation
Institutional capacity is assessed as very high priority for all the countries by around 70% and 20
% as high priority. Stakeholders’ involvement in implementation of climate change policy is
considered high – approximately 95% of the answers.
Participation in climate change negotiations:
Mapping:
All five countries are non Annex I (developing countries) to the UNFCCC and non Annex B (do
not have legally binding mitigation commitments) to the Kyoto Protocol. All of them are
undergoing a process of accession to the European Union. Thus implies similarities in their
positions in the climate change negotiation process as well as opportunities for regional
cooperation.
National Climate Change Focal Point
Albania Ministry of Environment, Forests and Water Administration
Bosnia and Ministry for Physical Planning, Civil Engineering and Ecology of Republika Srpska
Herzegovina
FYR of Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning
Macedonia
Montenegro The Ministry for Spatial Planning and Environment
Serbia Ministry of Environment, Mining and Spatial Planning
In all five countries the responsibilities for the implementation of international and national
climate change related policy lays with ministries which are responsible for the environmental
policy. It is not clear to what extent the part of the ministry responsible for “spatial planning” is
engaged, or if an internal coordination mechanism exists.
Delegation for climate change negotiations
Albania Normally there is only one participant, the UNFCCC focal point, while in the COP/MOPs the
delegation participating at the high-level segment is enlarged to 4-6 members representing the
Prime Ministry, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Water Administration and the Ministry
of Foreign Relations/diplomatic missions. The regional cooperation is secured through the set
meetings of our Group during the negotiating talks. There is no prior coordination.
Bosnia and B&H regularly participate during COP meetings, especially during last two years since Country
Herzegovina has started preparation of the National communications to UNFCCC. However, there is no country
negotiation team for international negotiations under UNFCCC.
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10. FYR of Delegation that participates at CoP meetings usually includes representatives of other relevant
Macedonia ministries/institutions beside the UNFCCC Focal Point and representatives from the Ministry of
Environment and Physical Planning. The Minister of Environment and Physical Planning is almost
always present at the high level segment of the CoP. In Copenhagen, the President of Macedonia
was leading the delegation, and in Mexico, beside the Minister of Environment and Phisical
Planning, the Minister of Health was part of the delegation for the high level segment of the
meeting.
Montenegro Depending on the occasion, in the occasion of COP meetings delegation consists of several
government representatives (between 5 to 10 members), in other occasions i.e. other annual
meetings, delegation consist of one to two members or country is not represented at all.
Participation is heavily dependent on funds available. International negotiations under UNFCCC
are coordinated by the sector for international relations within the Ministry, and made up of a team
of 4 people in addition to the deputy minister in charge of the sector.
Serbia Delegation usually consists of 10 people from different institutions, including Ministry of
Infrastructure and Energy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic Hydrometeorological service, EU
Integration Office, Electric power Industry Serbia, Ministry of Economy and Regional
Development, NGO.
Results of the survey:
The influence of the National Focal Point on climate change to engage other institutions in
policy making and implementation is assessed as good by half of the respondents.
 40% assessed the number of the members of the
delegation on the climate change negotiations as
sufficient, the other 30% as non sufficient and the
rest do not know;
 The need to involve in the delegation other
ministries and organizations, together with the
ministry of environment is broadly recognized. The
role of the energy, development and finance
ministries is rated high, together with the need of
involvement of the NGOs and civil society (see the
figure);
 The capacity to cover various topics under
negotiations is relatively low. At the same time,
around 1/3 of the respondents do not know what is
the capacity of the negotiation team;
 Regional consensus and coordination on certain
negotiation positions is assessed as very important
by 60% and as important by more than 30%.
National coordination mechanisms/National climate change committees
The institutional arrangements for transition to low-emission and climate resilient development
should first of all determine an institution/s that would take the leadership and responsibility for
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11. coordinating the process and establish a mechanism for cross-sectoral cooperation and broader
stakeholder participation.
The most appropriate institutional design depends on national circumstances of particular
countries. It is important that key agencies involved in national development planning participate
in the process. Moreover, some legal arrangements for a national coordinating body should be
made. It is possible either to use institutions that existed prior to low carbon and climate resilient
growth plans or to create a new one that includes inter-ministerial representation.
Mapping:
National coordination mechanism – National CC Committee
Albania No. Not on a sustainable basis. There is the National Steering Committee facilitated under the
UNDP Climate Change Programme and on a projects basis, headed by the Ministry of
Environment, Forestry and Water Administration with representatives from the Ministry of
Economy, Trade and Energy; Ministry of Public Works and Transport; Ministry of Finance;
Ministry of Health; Ministry of Agriculture; Ministry of Interior; Ministry of Tourism; Ministry of
EU Integration; INSTAT; Academy of Sciences and three relevant NGOs.
A project to facilitate the establishment of a Network at a high level is under implementation;
The project for the preparation of the Third national Communication of Albania to UNFCCC
(which is at the stage of self assessment) will contribute to the process as well.
Bosnia and For implementation of its obligations, BiH has established the Climate Change Committee at the
Herzegovina State level, (with 32 members) and, subsequently, in 2007, the Sub-committee for Climate Change
(with 10 members). The latter comes under the National Steering Committee for Environment and
Sustainable Development. These two bodies include representatives of the State, two entities and
Brčko District, and are responsible for reaching common positions on relevant proposals before
their submission for official adoption/endorsement. However, those bodies, according available
data are inactive.
FYR of The National Climate Change Committee was established in 2000 and it cosists of representatives
Macedonia of all relevant Ministries (Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning, Ministry of Agriculture,
Forestry and Water Economy, Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Transport and Communication,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs), academia, private sector and NGOs. The current Chair of the CC
Committee is from the Macedonian Academy of Arts and Science.
Montenegro Currently there is no national Committee on Climate Change, but we are intensively thinking about
modalities of establishment of such body. There are some obstacles which get in the way of
establishment of this body, mainly the influence of financial crisis that resulted in rationalization or
cutting down of already established committees in the Government, and of course halting the
creation of new ones.
Serbia Working group for the process of negotiation under UNFCCC has been established in 2009, and it
consists of the representatives from different institution including Ministry of Infrastructure and
Energy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic Hydrometereological Service, EU Integration
Office , Ministry of Economy and Regional Development, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of
Agriculture, Trade, Forestry and Water Management
Results of the survey:
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12.  More than 65% assess as very important to have
a national coordination committee (NCC) (or
similar) on climate change and 25.7% as
important;
 63% responded that it is very important and 25%
important that the NCC should have sufficient
authority and resources to effectively coordinate
climate change initiatives in the country;
 More than two thirds of the answers show that it
is important to include all relevant ministries and
stakeholders to be represented in the NCC.
Climate change departments/experts:
Institutional and human capacity has the highest importance for the success of any policy, especially of an
innovative one such as low-carbon and climate resilient policy.
Mapping:
Climate change departments/experts
Albania Climate change departments exist in ministries of: environment and other organizations. Climate
change experts: agriculture/forestry, energy, and health. Between 1 and 2.
Bosnia and Climate change departments exist in ministries of: environment; other organizations/institutions;
Herzegovina some experts in environment and other organizations.
FYR of According to the structure of the post in the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning, there
Macedonia should be a Climate Change department but currently there is only a CC State Advisor who is also
the UNFCCC Focal Point. The Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and
Water Economy have CC Focal Points, and the Ministry of Economy has an Energy Department
dealing with energy efficiency and renawables. Climate change experts exist in all relevant
institutions.
Montenegro Climate change departments exist in ministries of: environment. Climate change experts:
environment, energy, transport, health, and other organizations/institutions - between 1 and 2.
Serbia Climate change departments exist in ministries of: environment (climate change division, 5
employees), energy (Department for Sustainable Development and Climate Change) , foreign
affairs; additionally there are climate change experts in environment, economy/finance,
agriculture/forestry, energy, transportation, health, foreign affairs, and other
organizations/institutions – between 1 and 2.
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13. Results of the survey:
 The need to have specified climate change departments in
key ministries is strong, in particular in: environment,
energy, agriculture and transport.
 The need to have climate change department in ministries
dealing with development appears relevant.
 More than 70% believe that if it is not possible to have a
department at least some climate change experts on
specific areas should be working in the key ministries.
Regional cooperation:
Regional cooperation brings enhanced opportunities for the countries to share knowledge and
best practices, which would otherwise be generated through individual activities. Additionally,
regional approaches are a proven cost-effective way of performing any activities and projects in
this region. All the similarities amongst the Western Balkan countries: political, economical,
geographical as well as the ongoing regional activities imply that it is preferable to continue
cooperation on a regional basis, including on issues related to climate change – on both
mitigation and adaptation. At the same, time this approach is in line with the strategic approach
of both the UNFCCC and the EC in supporting the region in responding to the climate change
challenge.
Mapping:
Regional cooperation
Albania There is no other regional coordination besides the ones on RENA and Western Balkan
Investment Coordination Platform (WBICP).
Bosnia and Belgrade Climate Change Initiative (which supports the implementation of the South-
Herzegovina East European Climate Change Framework Action Plan for Adaptation and has
established the Subregional Virtual Climate Change Centre hosted by Republic
Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia); Energy Community of the SEE Region
(which aims to improve the environmental situation via support for energy efficiency
and renewable energy); Regional Cooperation Council (which supports regional
cooperation in six key areas, including energy, and is based in Sarajevo)
FYR of Energy Community, RENA, Mediterranean Initiative for Climate Change leaded by Greece,
Macedonia Regional Cooperation Council, South East European Climate Change Framework Action Plan
for Adaptation.
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14. Montenegro South East European Climate Change Framework Action Plan for Adaptation –
SEE/CCFAP-A; Regional Forum on Climate Change with Montenegro as a host
country; Belgrade initiative
Serbia Serbia actively participates in RENA, as well as in Regional Forum for Climate
Change that has been established in 2009
Results of the survey:
More than 71% of respondents replied that regional cooperation is
very important and about 25% that it is important for addressing
climate change issues. The performance of existing regional
mechanisms/ platforms in addressing climate change policy and
programming needs was rated above 12% as good, above 28% as
satisfactory and about 30% as not very good and around 13% not
satisfactory.
Legislation:
At the global level the development of new international agreements on climate change is likely
to influence long-term decisions concerning national climate change policy in the Western
Balkans. On the other hand preparation for accession to EU brings to the countries new
environmental standards and legislation. Approximation of the EU legislation in many cases
supports the UNFCCC requirements, however, it should be taken into account that the Western
Balkan countries are still non Annex I and non Annex B under the UNFCCC process.
For the WB countries it is important to find a way of benefiting from the new global low carbon
and climate resilient economy achieving economic growth, through defining and implementing
the right policy, such as: investing in new technologies, making right balance between different
sectors’ development, green jobs creation. It is equally important to receive financial, technology
and capacity building support from the post 2012 international climate change assistance
structures.
What is even more important is that all existing development, sectoral, adaptation strategies are
cohesive. Unless policy makers integrate mitigation, adaptation and development strategies they
will miss efficiency savings and may pursue strategies that solve one problem but aggravate
others. Low-emission and climate resilient development strategy, in the context of sustainable
development, should be the leading if not the only development strategy in the countries.
Mapping:
Main Strategies
Albania National level: Sustainable Development Strategy; Sectoral strategies on Environmental Protection;
on Energy; on Road Safety; Health & Adaptation (under preparation); Strategy on national
Protection for Disasters (under preparation); Policy paper and its related Action plan on Carbon
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15. Financing; Law on Environmental Protection; Law on Forests and Forest services;
The preparation of the EU Tables of Concordance and the implementation of the reporting duties
according to the EU questionnaire related to the monitoring of the approximation to the EU
Climate Change Acquis - a Project under implementation.
Local Level: Mati River basin Management Plan; Torism & Agrotourism Development Strategy of
the Lezha Region; Forestry Development Strategy of the Lezha Region.
Bosnia and National level: No strategy, policy or action plan specific to climate change issues (except INC)
Herzegovina exists at the State or entity levels. There are sectoral strategies that are developed recently and
which addressed climate changes issues in proper way (e.g. Forestry Strategy for RS) but also there
are some sectoral strategies that has been developed recently which does not addressed climate
changes issues at all (e.g. water management strategy in FBIH). Additionally, there are other
strategic documents, mainly in energy sector which consider climate changes issues only through
implementation of the energy efficiency activities and using of renewables and did not recognize
them as a treaty (e.g. changes in water quantities and consequence for hydro power plants) -
Decision on establishment of DNA is approved by Council of Ministers, goal is that DNA would
be fully operational during 2011
Local Level: EU Convenient of Mayors as most important driver for addressing climate changes on
local level; - By signing EU Covenant of Mayors local communities are obliged to create adequate
administrative structures and prepare baseline emission inventory and develop Sustainable Energy
Action Plan - SEAP - City of Banja Luka and City of Sarajevo has finished this process - 10 other
local communities are in the process of joining EU Covenant of Mayors and preparation of its
SEAPs
FYR of The Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning (MoEPP) develop a proposal for EU ETS and
Macedonia MRV for the Norwegian bi-lateral support; also UNDP CO in collaboration with the MoEPP
developed a proposal on MRV and ETS for the Bulgarian CC Fast Start Funding and the proposal
was approved.
The Ministry is also planning to submit a proposal for the IPA 2012 programming.
Montenegro National level: National Spatial Plan of the Republic of Montenegro until 2020, 2006; National
Strategy of Sustainable Development of Montenegro, 2007 ; National Environmental Policy, 2008;
National Forestry Policy, 2008; Agriculture and Rural Development Strategy - July 2006;
UNFCCC First National Communication – October 2010; Energy policy of Montenegro by 2030
(adopted in March 2011); Energy Development Strategy of Montenegro by 2025 (2007); Action
Plan for implementation of the Energy Development Strategy for the period 2008-2012 (2008);
Strategy for Small Hydro Power Plants Development in Montenegro (2006); Energy Efficiency
Strategy (2005); Action Plan for implementation of the Energy Efficiency Strategy for the period
2008-2012 (2007); First National Energy Efficiency Action Plan for 2010 - 2012 (2010); Energy
Efficiency and Energy Strategy, Tourism Strategy...
Serbia National level: Initial national Communication; National Strategy for incorporation of the Republic
of Serbia into Clean Development Mechanism under the Kyoto Protocol for waste management,
agriculture and forestry sectors; National Environmental Protection Programme; National
Sustainable Development Strategz (NSDS) and Action Plan for the implementation of the NSDS
for the period 2009-2017; Serbian energy Development strategy by 2015; Forestry development
strategy; Strategy for Scientific and Technological Development; National Strategy for
Biodiversity
15

16. Survey results:
The importance of the legislation for the implementation of climate
change policy is rated 76.1% as very high, and 23.9% as high.
 The capacity of the governments to introduce needed
climate change legislations and policies is assessed as
still not sufficient with about 30% good, 42%
relatively low, 13% low, and 7.2% very good;
 The extent to which climate change policies and laws
are sufficiently funded/resourced is assesses by about
70% as relatively low and low all together;
 67% reported for poor engagement of relevant
stakeholders (e.g., private sector, communities,
NGOs, etc.) in formulating climate change laws,
policies and implementation mechanisms;
 The private sector preparedness to understand and
implement climate change laws is assessed by about
32% as low and about 43% as very low;
 About 50% considers as low and 20% as very low the capacity of the government to
ensure that climate change laws and policies are adequately understood at the local level;
 With 21% assessing as good, and 40% as not very good, and about 30% as low the
capacity of the local government units/agencies to introduce local policies/ordinances that
would support national climate change legislations/policies.
Carbon emissions trading:
As non Annex I Parties, the Western Balkan countries are eligible to participate in the Clean
Development Mechanism of the Kyoto Protocol. As accession countries they have to prepare to
implement the EU Emission Trading Scheme (EU ETS).
Mapping:
Participation in CDM
Albania Designated National Authority (DNA) for approval of CDM projects is operational, one (1)
CDM project registered.
Bosnia and Decision on establishment of the DNA is approved and it is expected that DNA would be fully
16

17. Herzegovina operational in 2011.
FYR of DNA functional; One CDM project registered.
Macedonia
Montenegro DNA functional; no CDM projects registered.
Serbia DNA functional; no CDM projects registered.
As candidate countries for membership in the EU, the five countries should prepare for the
effective implementation of the EU ETS, from the moment of accession. The EU ETS is the
major tool for CO2 reduction and all other carbon trading mechanisms should be implemented in
line with it, e.g. avoiding double counting of emission reductions. The proper implementation of
the EU ETS requires a lot of capacity building for the government as well as the private sector.
Participation in EU ETS
Albania n.a.
Bosnia and No plans.
Herzegovina
FYR of The Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning (MoEPP) develop a proposal for EU ETS
Macedonia and MRV for the Norwegian bi-lateral support; also UNDP CO in collaboration with the
MoEPP developed a proposal on MRV and ETS for the Bulgarian CC Fast Start Funding and
the proposal was approved.
The Ministry is also planning to submit a proposal for the IPA 2012 programming.
Montenegro According to National Plan for Integration transposition of ETS and non-ETS directives into
national legislation in 2014.
Serbia At the moment, there are certain activities related to capacity building of all relevant
stakeholders including representatives of energy and industry sector, in order to introduce them
key elements and main requirements of EUETS and to prepare them for the future
implementation (one seminar on EU ETS was held in March in Belgrade and the second
seminar will be organized in May 2011).
Survey results:
The importance of the flexible mechanisms under the Kyoto
Protocol for the implementation of climate change policy is assessed
as high.
17

18. The DNA’s capacity to perform its functions effectively to ensure adequate implementation of
CDM policy in the country is relatively low. Similar is the rating of the private sector capacity to
implement CDM projects. The preparedness of the countries to take part in the negotiations on
new market-based mechanisms is relatively low; more than 50% assessed it as such, with
around 25% answering “I do not know”.
The preparedness of the countries to take part in the EU ETS is
reported as relatively low, more than 70% assessed it as such. Little
awareness of the private sector on the EU ETS requirements is
expressed – around 60%, with only 13% rating it as relatively good.
Reporting, awareness and knowledge:
Having in place the mandatory and voluntary reports under the UN serves different purposes:
 Strengthens national expertise in different areas;
 Increases the public awareness on various issues;
 Provides information, necessary to formulate national policies and measures in the area;
 Informs donors about the achievements and the needs of the countries.
It should be noted that reporting under UNFCCC post 2012 regime will become more
comprehensive and on more frequent basis.
Mapping:
Reports status National Communication National Human Technology National Capacity
(NC) Development Needs Self Assessment
Report (HDR) Assessment (NCSA)
(TNA)
Albania Submitted Second NC, General Human Published Completed.
starting stock taking for the Development Report March 2004.
Third NC. - 1998; National
Human There are plans
Development to
Report-2010: develop/update
Capacity the TNA
Development and through UNDP.
Integration with the
European Union
Bosnia and First NC submitted, about Published in 2007. No plans for Inception phase.
Herzegovina to start Second NC. TNA.
FYR of Submitted the SNC, Published in 2004. TNA prepared Completed.
Macedonia starting stock taking for the in 2004. The
Ministry would
18

19. TNC. like to update
the TNA
through UNEP.
Montenegro First NC submitted, about Published in 2005. TNA is No.
to start Second NC. underway,
office for
sustainable
development is
coordinating the
assessment
Serbia First NC adopted by the Published 2005. No plans to No.
Government and submitted develop TNA.
to the UNFCCC Secretariat
in November 2010.
Survey results:
Reporting, awareness and knowledge has been assessed as highly important
for the implementation of climate change policy by almost all.
 National expertise engaged in the preparation of the
National Communication (NC) is assessed in general as
sufficient with around 30% highly sufficient and 45%
sufficient;
 The sustainability of the government in preparation of the
NC was rated as marginally sufficient;
 The countries are not very well prepared to report more
frequently (as it was decided under the Cancun
Agreements).
The climate change issues were assessed as not fully addressed in the Human Development Reports
(HDR) of each country by 35% of the respondents, at the same time about half answered with “I do not
19

20. know”. The answers show that the HDR findings and recommendations were not used broadly to shape
national climate change policies and legislations, and more than 50% are not aware of this4.
The National Capacity Self Assessment (NCSA) study, where in place, is not making a significant
difference in policy making, where more than 60% answered with “I do not know”.
The importance of climate change related websites is assessed as very high almost by all (74.3% very
high, 21.4% high). Few websites related to climate change were reported as existing. However their
efficiency to reach different stakeholders was not assessed as good.
Although some training was provided to the countries in climate
change areas (reported mainly in GHG emissions inventories and
CDM), the need for more trainings is very big. Moreover, the need
for more GHG inventory training is assessed as high, and the same
applies for GHG projections, development of LEDS and NAMAs,
carbon trading, implementation of climate change related
legislation, access to climate change finance, etc.
Adaptation:
Adaptation policy and measures should be assessed in a development context. Capacity to
develop an adaptation strategy, including disaster risk management and capacity to implement it
are equally important.
Mapping:
Adaptation strategy/plan Disaster Risk Reduction strategy
Albania There is the Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan for The National Strategy for Disaster Risk
the Drini cascade area, part of the Second National Management is under preparation;
Communication of Albania to UNFCCC; There is still
as a draft version the Health and Climate Change Plans are under preparation for the
Adaption Strategy and Action plan; A report on flood management control in
possible adaptation measures for the energy sector in Drini/Buna basins;
Albania; A report/action plan for the adaptation
measures for the agriculture sector in Albania is under
preparation; There are three adaptation plans developed
for three communes within the Lezha Region; The
4
It should be noted that in most countries the last Human Development Report was prepared several years ago,
hence, reflection of climate change doesn’t necessarily indicate current situation in the country.
20

21. Action Plan for the adaption to climate change of the
Lezha Region is under preparation; There are plans to
develop an action plan for adaptation for the area to be
considered under the Vulnerability&Adaptation chapter
of the Third National Communication of Albania to
UNFCCC (the area not yet fixed: there are two options
considered (The Vjosa River Basin and the Albanian
Coastal Area).
Bosnia and The detailed list of potential primary and secondary Currently, government together with
Herzegovina adaptation measures is proposed in the INC for UNDP is preparing Disaster risk
particular sectors (land, coastal areas, water assessment which would consider
management, agriculture and cattle breeding, forestry, climate changes. Plan is to prepare
mining and energy, tourism, economy and trade, National Strategy for Disaster Risk
infrastructure, health and social status, education and Reduction in years to come.
socio-economic development). These measures, which
include legislation, capacity-building, organizational
and technical measures, and economic instruments, are
presented at a rather general level without setting
priorities or a time frame. It would be necessary to
further develop sectoral strategies on adaptation, but for
now there are no plans for this action.
FYR of Adaptation Strategy/Plan is part of the Second National The outline of a National Disaster Risk
Macedonia Communication and it will be upgraded during the Reduction Strategy will be prepared
development of the Third National Communication that with support from UNDP as part of the
will start in the second half of 2011. regional project on DRR
There is a National Strategy for Adaptation of the There is a National Platform on
Health Sector and an Action Plan, and the similar Disaster Risk Reduction
strategy is under preparation for the agriculture sector.
Montenegro There is no current consideration for development of There is some recent development in
National Strategy or Action Plan for Adaptation area of National Strategy for Disaster
Risk Redaction but with limited
consideration of climate change.
Serbia Initial National Communication contains short term
adaptation measures for hydrology and water resources,
forestry, biodiversity and natural ecosystems,
agriculture and health. In addition, INC indicates
priority need for development national Adaptation Plan
of Actions (NAPA)
21

22. Results of the survey:
The importance of adaptation strategy is unanimously expressed as
very high.
 Although some capacity and resources in the countries for implementation of the Adaptation
Strategy/Action Plan exist in general it is assessed as relatively low.
 The regional cooperation was identified as very useful when developing and implementing
Adaptation Strategy/Action Plan.
 More than 50% assessed the capacity to mobilize international funding to help implement the
national adaptation strategy and action plan as not adequate and other 30% as adequate.
Ecosystem-based adaptation is assessed by about 40% as very important and about 34% as
important. The role of ecosystems in absorption and storing of carbon is shown by more than
70% as high.
Workshops, demonstration projects, publications are found by the majority as important in
strengthening scientific capacities of countries in preservation of carbon pools at ecosystems.
Low-carbon development:
The transition to low emission development path in both developed and developing economies
has been recognized internationally as an imperative to stabilizing GHG concentrations in line
with the 2 degree temperature increase scenario. However there is still limited practical
experience on designing and implementing comprehensive national low emission development
strategies (LEDS) or nationally appropriate mitigation actions (NAMAs) and no guidelines on
the preparation of such strategies or NAMAs have been developed and adopted in the UNFCCC
process. At the same time fast start financing committed by developed countries in Copenhagen
is already in place to support countries in developing and implementing LEDSs and NAMAs. A
number of countries globally and in the region have initiated and developed LEDS or NAMAs.
To answer the needs of the countries from EE&CIS, UNDP initiated a regional project
“Supporting countries transition to low-emission development” in April 2010. The project
assists the countries to develop capacity to formulate, mobilize finance and implement Low-
emissions Development Strategies or Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions. Guidelines on
how to develop LEDS and NAMAs was published in English and Russian languages
(http://europeandcis.undp.org/home/publications).
Mapping:
Low-emission development strategies / Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions
22

23. Albania NAMAs not specified under UNFCCC. The country plans to develop NAMAs as part of the Third
National Communication of Albania to UNFCCC.
Bosnia and NAMAs not specified under Copenhagen Accord. There are not prepared NAMAs, but as part of
Herzegovina the Initial National Communication to UNFCCC there are proposed mitigation measures by
different sectors. Namely, measures are proposed for the energy sector (increase in energy
efficiency, introduction of renewables, reduction of methane emissions), district heating sector
(improvement in infrastructure and regulation, support for cogeneration), building sector (new
standards, recovery of existing buildings, new technologies), industrial processes (energy
efficiency, introduction of renewables), transport (better inspection of vehicles, support for public
transport, railways and water transport), agriculture (biogas production, better agricultural
practice), forestry (better forest management) and waste management (reduction of waste
generation, support for recycling and re-use, an emphasis on collection and usage of methane from
regional landfills). Specific attention is paid to renewable energy sources. The highest emission
reduction potential has been assessed for hydropower (560,000 – 2.5 million tons of CO2 per
year), energy efficiency measures (180,000 – 240,000 tons of CO2 per year) and co-combustion of
biomass in power stations (more than 150,000 tons of CO2 per year).
FYR of Range of NAMAs submitted (Electric power sector; Industrial energy transformations and heating
Macedonia sector; Transport; Waste Sector; Agriculture and forestry, amongst others: harmonization with the
EU legislation, Introduction and development of mitigation technologies Strengthening the
national and local capacities for carbon financing, Education for application of mitigation
measures, Implementation of the strategic documents). The WB and SIDA allocated about 2 mil
USD (Trust fund established) to support development of Green development plan.
Montenegro At a later stage NAMAs to be submitted to the UNFCCC (once the First National Communication
ready. At this stage LEDS is not being developed. A twinning EC project the national development
plan is underway, but the contract/TOR did not include the low emissions component to the plan.
In contest of our international commitments to UNFCCC and Copenhagen Accord and Cancun
Agreement as well in contest of EU accession process, our plan is to conduct consultation on
national level and consultation with our international partners in order to design and submit
appropriate NAMAs.
Serbia At a later stage NAMAs to be submitted to the UNFCCC (once the First National Communication
ready. "Capacity Development project on nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions (NAMA) in
the Republic of Serbia" started in January 2011, funded by the Government of Japan. Main
objective is capacity building for the preparation of mitigation related measures and activities.
Survey results:
The importance of low-emission development for the implementation of
climate change policy is considered by the majority as very high.
The capacity to define and submit Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions (NAMAs) to UNFCCC
is assessed by some 27% as good by other 35% as not enough. About 47% of the respondents are not
23

24. aware of the political will to undertake ambitious NAMAs under the post-2012 regime; about 6%
consider the will as high, 14.7% as relatively high, 23.5% as relatively low and 8.8% as low. The need for
international support of NAMAs is exceeding 65%.
The capacity of the government to develop Low-emission development strategy (LEDS) is considered
low by about 55% and sufficient by 22%.
The expertise possessed by the countries in the specific areas needed for LEDS development is assessed
as follows:
 Strategic planning - high
 Macroeconomic analysis - high
 Development of GHG inventories - high
 GHG projections - good
 Prioritization of mitigation options- relatively good
 Regulatory approach/legislation - good
 Regulatory approach/ standards - good
 Regulatory approach/ fossil fuel subsidy removal – relatively
week
 Regulatory approach/ tax reform - relatively week
 Regulatory approach/directing tax revenue to support low-carbon
economy - relatively week
 Sectoral measures for emission reduction – relatively good
 Mobilizing investments for transition to low-carbon economy
domestically – week
 Mobilizing investments for transition to low-carbon economy
internationally - week
 Social dimensions of LED, such as poverty, green jobs, health,
education and culture - relatively week
 Consideration of gender issues while developing and
implementing climate change policy is still not enough
 Monitoring, reporting, adjustment – relatively low
Financial resources:
At COP 15 in Copenhagen (2009) and COP 16 in Cancun (2010), there was a broad agreement
that an effective response to climate change will require new financing on a massive scale up to
and beyond 2012. It was also agreed that developing countries will require substantial additional
assistance to meet the challenges they face.
For the Western Balkan countries the accession to the EU presents a challenge to meet the
relevant climate change requirement, but at the same time it is an opportunity in terms of
financing sources.
However, there is a need of a certain level of capacity in order to have an access to existing
financing and to prepare for the future financial assistance. For example, in order to receive
carbon finance from CDM projects certain structures and procedures should be in place, for
receiving international support for implementing NAMAs, a country should have developed
those NAMAs and respectively the needed structures for their implementation.
24

25. Mapping:
Financial sources
Albania n.a. national, private funding.
EU funds: There is no special focus on climate change within the EU Delegation in Albania. The
EPA 12-2nd programming is under preparation in cooperation with the Ministry of Integration: A
formal request from the MoE on possible funds for climate change activities is to be considered.
RENA project
UNFCCC: Adaptation Fund: no application yet. GEF/UNDP: Identification and implementation of
adaptation measures in the Drini-Mati river deltas; Market transformation for solar water heating
in Albania; Enabling Albania to prepare its Third National Communication to UNFCCC. German
Gov/WHO: Protecting health from climate change in Albania. World Bank: Impacts of climate
change in energy and agriculture; Vulnerability of European and Central Asian countries to climate
change; Natural resources/reforestation-aforestation CDM project; Disaster risk mitigation and
adaptation. Italian Ministry for Environment, Land and Sea: Assistance for the implementation of
the Kyoto Protocol.
Bosnia and The environmental funds in both entities are operational, and among other things they should
Herzegovina financially support climate change activities. However, funds that are on disposal are limited (in
Republika Srpska for 2011 it is about 1.1 million Euros). They are supporting different
environmental protection projects including projects on climate changes mitigation. Also, support
is provided for preparation of strategic documents and legislation. According its Statutes, Funds
could co finance programmes and projects implemented by international financial institutions and
organizations. Private funding exists in the area of renewables (small hydro and biomass) and
energy efficiency.
EU funds: IPA funds. UNFCCC funds: GEF. Project on Energy Efficiency in Public Building is
submitted to GEF Secretary; USAID - Energy Efficiency; GTZ - Energy Efficiency; EU - Energy
Efficiency; UNDP - Support for establishment of BiH’s DNA; National Communications to
UNFCCC (INC and SNC); Preparation of the Sustainable Energy Action Plans (SEAPs); Support
in reform of the existing national (entity) environmental protection funds; Energy Efficiency.
FYR of There is no environmental fund in the country. The state is partially co-financing some of the
Macedonia investments in EE and renewable, as well as some of the local governments. Most of the projects
are financed by donor funding – UNDP/GEF, WB, Norway, Swedish SIDA, Swiss Cooperation
Agency, kfW, GTI (former GTZ), Italy, Austrian Development Agency, REC, etc.
Montenegro There is no national funding for climate change activities, no private funding. UNFCCC:
Adaptation Fund, project concept is being prepared. The Special Climate Change Fund. Green
Fund- yet to be established. EU/IPA, GEF, UNDP, UNEP, UNIDO, World Bank, GIZ, REC,
Government to Government donors: Italy, Norway, Netherland.
Serbia EU funds: IPA, TAIEX; UNFCCC: GEF; Bilateral donors: Government of Japan - Capacity
Development project on National Appropriate Mitigation Actions; Government of Norway -
development of National Strategy for incorporation of the Republic of Serbia into Clean
Development Mechanism under the Kyoto Protocol; Government of Spain - Feasibility Study
"Efficient ways for GHG emissions reduction under the post-Kyoto framework"; Government of
Italy - different activities related to climate change
25

26. Survey results:
All respondents consider mobilization of climate change resources as important,
of which 69.7% very important and 28.8% important.
National resources are considered as insufficient by the majority. At the same time, the existing available
resources are not used efficiently and 75% believe that more national funds are needed to meet the
countries needs. Respondents consider that there are not enough tools to leverage private financing for
climate change, the opinion on Public Private Partnership applicability in the countries is divided into
two, and there is a strong need to introduce policy and regulatory frameworks that would allow greater
private sector participation in climate change funding/investments.
Most respondents are of the opinion that EU funds related to
climate are not very well used (55%). Almost all respondents
recognize the that there is a need for more capacity building in
order to be able to use EU funds efficiently and that EU funds are
not sufficient to meet the country’s needs in the area of climate
change.
The majority of the respondents think that their country does not benefit enough from existing UNFCCC
funds and that the government does not have sufficient capacity to prepare projects under relevant parts of
the UNFCCC funds.
On the question to what extent are there active donors in your country in the field of climate change and if
donors’ support is sufficient of the majority of the answers is in the lower range.
Monitoring and evaluation of climate change policy:
Monitoring and Reporting is necessary for the implementation for domestic mitigation measures and is
required for obtaining international support for NAMAs. This requires detailed quantitative and
qualitative evidence, thus a monitoring and reporting system should be in place in the countries.
26

27. Mapping:
Monitoring and evaluation of the climate change policy/ NAMAs
Albania Stock-taking exercise for the preparation of the National Communications. No concrete plans for
domestic MRV.
Bosnia and No.
Herzegovina
FYR of The Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning (MoEPP) develop a proposal for EU ETS and
Macedonia MRV for the Norwegian bi-lateral support; also UNDP CO in collaboration with the MoEPP
developed a proposal on MRV and ETS for the Bulgarian CC Fast Start Funding and the proposal
was approved.
The Ministry is also planning to submit a proposal for the IPA 2012 programming.
Montenegro No system in place currently because there is no CC strategies, plans or policies the Agency for
Environmental Protection is mandated with monitoring on a status of environment ,covering
among others climate change- its mandate for this year is to begin the process of developing
environmental indicators (not sustainable development, but just environment). Since this issue has
not been regulated on international level, we will wait for further decisions and guidance on final
form and content of MRV. Our plan is to enhance our domestic capacities for MRV mainly
through improvement of capacities of competent authority located in Environmental Protection
Agency. In this area we will need substantive support from our partners.
Serbia One of the main purposes of the Capacity development project on NAMA will be enhancement of
general understanding on NAMAs and measurement, reporting and verification (MRV).
Survey results:
Monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of the climate change
policy is considered of a very high importance.
The existing system for GHG inventory, as well as the monitoring system for the implementation of the
national climate change policy are evaluated as not sufficient. The capacity in the country to establish an
efficient MRV system is not sufficient either.
Summary of the survey results for Kosovo
As Kosovo is not a Party to the UNFCCC and other UN Conventions, the survey was less
comprehensive and includes only relevant topics. That is why the results are not included in the
survey for the above five countries. However, the specific results are very much comparable to
the ones described above and the similar conclusions could be drawn in regard to the capacity
status and needs towards the low-carbon and climate resilient development.
27

28. The summary of the mapping and survey results are presented below.
Kosovo
Mapping
CC Departments Do not exist in any of the ministries
CC experts Available in ministries of: environment, economy/finance, agriculture/forestry, energy,
transport, health, foreign affairs, as well as other organizations. Number – between 1-2
Regional RENA, ENVSEC
cooperation
Relevant strategies Adopted Laws: 1. Law on environmental protection 2. Law on forests of Kosovo 3. Law on
and laws energy 4. Law on air protection 5. Law on nature conservation 6. Law on waste 7. Law on
integrated pollution prevention and control 8. Law on air protection from pollution.
Draft laws expected to be adopted in 2011: 1. Draft law on energy efficiency Administrative
orders: 1. Administrative order for issuing the ecological (environmental) permit 2.
Administrative order on cadastre (inventory) of emissions in the environment 3.
Administrative order about the norms and the limits for emissions in the air from stationary
sources 4. Administrative order for administering the wastes in public areas
Strategies: 1. Kosovo Energy Strategy 2009 – 2018 – adopted 2. Strategy of Air and Action
Plan for Air Quality 3. Kosovo Environmental Strategy and Action Plan 2011 – 2015 under
preparation
Plans to implement No, there are currently no plans to implement EU ETS.
EU ETS
HDR At present UNDP Kosovo is preparing the HDR together with the Ministry for Economic
Development
CC Websites There are no web sites on climate change
Provided trainings A training on 'Capacity Development Clean Development Mechanism and on Energy
Efficiency'. 1) EU Climate and Energy Package 2) Renewable energy and Carbon Capture
and Storage (RENA) 3) Adaptation to the Impacts Climate Change for Reducing the Risks
in South Eastern Europe (Venice-Viu).
Plans to develop A Concept Note on LEDS was prepared (together with the above). Pending on fundraising.
National Strategy or With the support of UNDP Kosovo in coordination with BRC.
Adaptation Plan
Development of A Concept Note on Climate Resilient Development (including the National Strategy and
LEDS Action Plans for Adaptation) and DRR was prepared. Both are pending on fundraising. With
the support of UNDP Kosovo in coordination with BRC.
National funds for No, there are no funds dedicated for the climate change activities.
CC
Private funding for No
CC activities
Active donors in the UNDP Project for GHG Inventory - is the only project that is under preparation.
country
Monitoring No, there is not any mechanism in place to monitor and evaluate the climate change policy
mechanism for the
implementation of
the strategies and
plans
Survey results
Type of institution  57.1% governmental structure; 28.6% Other (industry); 14.3% NGO.
presented
Sectors represented  50% environment; and 12.5% each from development, agriculture, energy, forestry, and
transport.
Level of the position  42.9% senior; 57.1% medium.
Involvement in CC  14.3% direct and 85.7% indirect.
policy decision
28

29. making
Involvement in CC  28.6% direct and 71.4% indirect.
policy
implementation
Gender  100% male.
National
coordination  Importance of NCC: 85.7% very high; 14.3 high;
committee (NCC)  Authorities and resources of the NCC: 85.7% very
important; 14.3% important
 The NCC shall be established immediately
Inclusion of
representatives of  71.7% very important; 14.3% important; 14.3% not important
other organization in
NCC
Importance to  Environment: 100% very important;
establish CC  Economy/finance: 50% very important, 33.3%
departments important;
 Development: 83.3% very important;
 Agriculture 66.7% very important and 16.7%
important;
 Forestry: 50% very important and 25.0% important;
 Energy: 71.4% very important and 28.6% important;
 Transport: 66.7% very important and 33.3%;
 Health: 57.1% very important;
 Foreign affairs: 25% very important and 25%
important.
If not a CC 42.9% very important, 42.9% important
department at least
experts
Regional  71.4% very important;
cooperation
Performance of
regional 14.3% very good, 28.6% good, 14.3% relatively poor. 14.3% poor
mechanisms/platfor
ms
Importance of
legislation to  85.7% very important; 14.3% important
implement CC
policy
29

30. Capacity to  Capacity of the government to introduce legislation:
introduce CC 14.3% sufficient, 42.9% relatively sufficient, 42.9%
legislation and relatively insufficient;
policy  Funding of CC policies and laws: 14.3% sufficient,
14.3% relatively sufficient, 28.6% relatively
insufficient; 42.9% insufficient;
 Ensuring participation of stakeholders: 42.9%
sufficient, 28.6% relatively sufficient, 28.6%
relatively insufficient;
 Private sector involvement: 42.9% relatively
sufficient, 42.9% relatively insufficient.
Capacity to ensure  To be understood at local level: 14.3% sufficient, 14.3% relatively sufficient, 42.9%
that CC laws are relatively insufficient;
adequately  To be implemented at local level: 14.3% sufficient, 42.9% relatively sufficient, 28.6%
transferred to local relatively insufficient, 14.3% insufficient
level
EU ETS  Preparedness of the government: 42.9% relatively sufficient, 42.9% relatively
insufficient;
 Private sector: 14.3% relatively sufficient, 57.1% relatively insufficient.
Awareness and  Importance of awareness and knowledge for implementation of CC
knowledge policy: 50% very important, 33,3% important, 16.7% not very
important.
CC related Websites  100% very important;
 Efficiency to reach stakeholders of the existing websites: 28.6% relatively poor, 28.6%
relatively poor.
Training needed
 In the areas of:
o Inventories
o Development of strategies and laws
o Development of NAMAs
o Implementation of legislation
o GHG projections
o Access to finance
o Carbon trading
o others
Capacities and
resources to  Capacity in the country to implement Adaptation
implement strategy: 14.3% relatively good, 57.1% relatively
adaptation strategy week, 28.6% week;
 Regional cooperation: 100% very important;
 Ecosystem based approach: 57.1% very important;
42.9% important;
 Climate induced natural hazards: 28.6% exist, 42.9%
do not exist;
 Capacity to mobilize international funding: 14.3%
sufficient, 14.3% relatively sufficient, 28.6%
relatively insufficient, 42.9% insufficient;
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31. Low-emission  Importance: 100% very important;
development  Political will undertake ambitious NAMAs: 14.3% high, 57.1% relatively high, 14.3%
relatively low, 14.3% low;
 Need for international support: 71.4% very high, 28.6% high;
 National capacity to develop LEDS: 14.3% relatively sufficient, 71.4 insufficient,
14.3% insufficient.
National expertise in  Strategic planning – relatively low
regard to LEDS  Macroeconomic analysis - relatively low
 Development of GHG inventories - low
 GHG projections – very low
 Prioritization of mitigation options- low
 Regulatory approach/legislation - good
 Regulatory approach/ standards - good
 Regulatory approach/ fossil fuel subsidy removal – relatively
week
 Regulatory approach/ tax reform - week
 Regulatory approach/directing tax revenue to support low-carbon
economy - week
 Sectoral measures for emission reduction – relatively good
 Mobilizing investments for transition to low-carbon economy
domestically – low
 Mobilizing investments for transition to low-carbon economy
internationally - week
 Social dimensions of LED, such as poverty, green jobs, health,
education and culture - week
 Consideration of gender issues while developing and
implementing climate change policy is still not enough
 Monitoring and reporting of implementation of strategy –
relatively good.
Importance of
mobilization of
financial resources
 Very important 85.7%, 14.3% important
Financial recourses
sufficiency  National resources: not sufficient
 Existing funds: not sufficiently used
 More national funds needed: 57.1% very high
 Existence of tool to leverage financing for CC: very
low;
 Applicability of PPP: not high;
 Need to introduce policy and regulatory framework
that will allow greater participation of the private
sector: very high.
Donors  Active donors in the CC field: little;
 Donor’s support: not sufficient.
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32. Monitoring and
evaluation of the
implementation of  Very important 87.5%. 14.3% important;
CC policy  GHG inventory: not sufficient;
 Monitoring system for policy implementation: not
sufficient;
 Capacity to establish MRV system: relatively
sufficient;
Additional important things identified by the respondents:
To improve national performance is needed:
 National coordination mechanism for climate change issues and LED
 Strategic planning
 Legislation and its implementation
 Monitoring, verification, reporting
 Strengthening of the statistical structures
 Human capacity
 Knowledge and education
Recommendations to donors:
 Donors should coordinate their actions in a way to secure synergies and to avoid
overlapping and duplication.
 to be more in line with the governments programs
 Act in response to the country needs
 Focus on specific green investments, trainings, jobs, education;
 Offer various alternative financing mechanisms custom-made for specific national
market conditions
 To target regional cooperation
 To provide more funds
Recommendations to the international community:
 The international community is expected to provide further support to the countries and
to help them meet their development goals and
 to secure clarity and rules in global climate regime
 Networking Regional cooperation
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33. Detailed information about the mapping survey could be found at:
Mapping: http://desktop.websurveyor.net/analysis/generatepublicreport.aspx?esid=343779&subaccountid=92349
Survey: http://desktop.websurveyor.net/analysis/generatepublicreport.aspx?esid=343776&subaccountid=92349
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