July 6-7, 2023 | Nha Trang – UCLG ASPAC, host of the GCoM Southeast Asia, supported the organisation of a two-day workshop on Climate Solutions and Climate Finance from July 6 to 7, 2023. The workshop was organised under the GCoM Asia Project, funded by the European Union, in collaboration with the Association of Cities of Viet Nam (ACVN). Attracting 93 representatives of 33 cities and towns across Viet Nam and experts from the region, the workshop equipped them with technical knowledge and resources from local and international institutions to access and mobilise climate finance. The event was graced by Dr. Rui Ludovino (First Counsellor of the European Union Delegation to Viet Nam), Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Son (Chairman of ACVN and Viet Tri City People’s Committee), Dr. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi (Secretary General of UCLG ASPAC/GCoM Southeast Asia Secretariat), and Mr. Ho Van Mung (Chairman of Nha Trang City People’s Committee).
This event also witnessed the CAPs Launching of Cao Lanh, Hue, Nam Dinh, and Sapa (the emission reduction target for all four cities is 9% by 2030) and recognised the efforts of four Vietnamese cities: Cao Lanh, Hue, and Sapa that have received the Adaptation and Mitigation Badge; while Can Tho has received the Compliance Badge.
Solutions to Reduce GHG Emission
Six speakers from different sectors shared the solutions their institutions have implemented and highlighted the importance of sustainable results and collaboration:
- SMMR: quality bus corridors;
- VinFast: the transition to a zero-emission and e-vehicle company;
- Cao Lanh: replacing existing Sodium and Metal lamps with LED lights;
- Jakarta: addressing waste management at different levels and a collaborative movement;
- Iskandar: driving low carbon initiatives and introducing the Low Carbon Society Blueprint for Iskandar Malaysia 2025;
- Zero Waste Community: making zero-waste communities.
Solutions to Climate Adaptation
Three speakers from the Philippines and Viet Nam shared their remarkable efforts in tackling the impacts of climate change in their respective cities:
- Hue: strong city and provincial leadership, enhanced capacity in early-warning systems, and communication campaigns to prevent further damages caused by floods and typhoons, in collaboration with different partners, like JICA;
- Baguio: Digitalisation programmes, such as Data Management and Command Centre;
- Hoi An: temporary measures (using bamboo and sandbag) and permanent embankment from various financial sources, especially the state budget.
Group Work Solutions to Climate Challenges in Vietnamese Cities
During the group work sessions, participants from various Vietnamese cities discussed the main challenges they face in different climate sectors and shared successful actions or projects/programmes they have implemented. Throughout these discussions, the importance of collaboration, awareness campaigns, and technology adoption for effective climate actions emerged as key themes in addressing the challenges faced by Vietnamese cities.
Alternative Climate Financing for Vietnamese Cities
- CDP: highlighting the importance of reporting which will lead to data-driven decision-making and the importance of standardised data;
- GAP Fund: providing technical assistance, investment pipeline, and knowledge sharing;
- GCF: a country-driven programme in Viet Nam.
City Climate Finance – Development of Project Proposals
In the event, Vietnamese cities took a significant step forward by developing their first draft of Expression of Interest (EOIs) based on the challenges they identified during group work sessions, facilitated by the Gap Fund in the City Climate Finance – Development of Project Proposals session.
Successful Case Studies of Climate Finance from Cities
This session showcased successful case studies from cities across Southeast Asia, demonstrating their innovative approaches to climate finance and sustainable development.
- Makati: transformation into a smart city;
- Tam Ky: commitment to green growth, energy efficiency in public buildings;
- Malang: waste management programme, combining circular economy principles to reduce waste generation and promote recycling;
- Pontianak: showcasing their meticulous preparation and dedication to aligning with climate finance guidelines.
Dialogue between the GCoM SEA Secretariat, GAP Fund, CDP, ISPONRE and Vietnamese cities/towns
The GCoM SEA Secretariat, GAP Fund, CDP, ISPONRE, and Vietnamese cities/towns discussed the financial tools to secure more funds for supporting climate projects. Various financial tools were also discussed, including public finance from national and local governments, private financing from companies and other sources, and project financing options offered by institutions like the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The key lies in leveraging these tools based on specific project needs and implementation plans. GCoM SEA, coordinated by UCLG ASPAC, will continue supporting cities by assisting with technical documentation aligned with both GCoM standards and local government priorities, facilitating workshops and shared experiences to learn from one another’s challenges and successes in climate action.
Summary
Dr. Ngo Trung Hai of ACVN on behalf of the host, praised the workshop’s significance in fulfilling climate commitments, facilitating impactful projects, and fostering a sustainable future through collaboration. “Together, we are building capacity and paving the way towards a sustainable future,” said Dr. Hai as he concluded his closing remarks.
