Engaging Indigenous Peoples in Carbon Markets

Hosted by: The FSC Indigenous Foundation, IPACC, REPALEAC, USAID Inclusive Development Hub, Conservation International

Date and Time: December 5, 10:00 - 11:00 am

Venue: Indigenous Peoples Pavilion at COP28

Background:

The global challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change require urgent and collaborative action. Indigenous communities, often the stewards of rich biodiversity, possess unique knowledge and sustainable practices that can significantly contribute to climate resilience. By fostering direct access for Indigenous Peoples to climate finance, we can empower Indigenous communities in Africa to implement sustainable solutions, contributing significantly to the broader goals of biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.

Carbon markets could be a way of empowering Indigenous Peoples by paying them for protecting the world's forests. They have the potential to create a unique opportunity for Indigenous communities to develop an economic sector aligned with Indigenous lifestyles, Indigenous Cultural Landscapes, and sustainable land management. It is also an opportunity for governments and industry to co-create meaningful partnerships and develop relevant policies with Indigenous Peoples.

On the other hand, some Indigenous communities fear that further development of carbon markets, even with the new rules agreed at COP26 and COP27, will endanger local livelihoods and create loopholes for further emissions. COP28 presents an opportunity for an inclusive space to identify the key constraints, challenges, and opportunities with the parties involved.

Objectives

This side-event will bring together different stakeholders engaged in carbon markets and climate finance to:

• Present good practices, challenges, and solutions on how carbon markets can empower Indigenous communities, and how to improve consultation and participation of Indigenous Peoples in the development of carbon market policies and regulations.
• Increase awareness and understanding of the unique contributions of Indigenous communities to climate resilience and showcase successful Indigenous-led climate projects, inspiring further support and replication.
• Discuss concrete partnerships and commitments between Indigenous communities and financial institutions and how to enhance the capacity of Indigenous communities to access and manage climate finance.

Methodolgy

Interactive dialogue

Simultaneous interpretation English Español Français

Speakers:

Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, Chairperson of the FSC Indigenous Foundation Council

Handaine Mohamed, North Africa Regional Representative and Chairperson of the Executive Committee, IPACC

Joseph Itongwa, Coordinator of REPALEAC and IPACC Great Lakes representative

Kanyinke Sena, Executive Director, IPACC

Bama Athreya, Deputy assistant administrator, Inclusive Development Hub, USAID

Elijah Toirai, Natural Climate Solutions (NCS) and Communities Lead, Conservation International

Balkisou Buba, Vice President of the Cameroon Branch of REPALEAC

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Expo City Dubai, Al Wasl Avenue, Dubai, United Arab Emirates