As stated in Day 2's ECO (NGO newsletter) from the Climate Action Network, "a little ray of sunlight...peeked through the clouds during the LCA workshop on sectoral approaches."

For any newcomers to the idea, check out our first post on the sectoral basics: http://www.tigblog.org/group/
accessaccra/post/461163

Specific victories for sectoral progress included concrete proposals from the EU to focus on the main, heavily-emitting developing world industrial sectors, and to use a harmonious combination of carbon markets, and technological and financial assistance (between A1 and non-A1 parties). South Korea voiced their full support, as they had brought an almost identical proposal to the table.

Japan has formally abandoned their two proposals stipulating that sectoral approaches should replace national targets within Annex 1, and that uniform sectoral targets should be imposed worldwide. This will absolutely facilitate further discussions, as without Japan's support these two points that have slowed negotiations are almost entirely moot.

Japan also presented some conclusive work on what would happen if a sectoral approach was applied to the energy-related sector [alone], worldwide. All in all, a three percent reduction in carbon emissions from 1990 levels would occur by 2020. Clearly not enough, which was a likely motivation for their willingness to open up a sectoral approach as supplemental to national targets - a very good sign that they are keeping their eyes on large mid-term targets.

The remainder of the sectoral leader's proposal greatly resembled the EU and South Korea, but the three do differ on the emphasis placed on either technological or financial assistance, or a carbon-based credit market.

The sources of financial and technological aid and by what means they will be transferred remained contentious issues throughout the discussion, especially raised by non-Annex 1 parties. A great deal of progress was made to ensure that the true issues that need attention emerged, but the legalism and proceduralism of old reared their heads throughout.

What issues are within the LCA's mandate and which should be pushed to the KP (since they are both holding sectoral workshops) was a question that received more attention than it deserved. What parties need to realize is that both AWG's are important, mutually dependent entities for a just and effective Copenhagen package. Barriers cannot be put up between them; they must work together.

To end on a happy note, South Korea has joined South Africa as leading emerging economies on climate change action. SK has announced that next year will mark the emergence of a real emissions reduction target that will carry them through 2020. Definitely putting all of us in Annex-1 to shame.

Dynamic day in the LCA, for sure. Check back later today for updates on Day 3.

Rhiya