..Press Release................................ UNESCAP News Services

Date 27 July 2007
Press Release No: N/36/2007

Regional Forum Explores Win-Win Solutions of Climate Change and Economic Growth

17th Asia-Pacific Seminar on Climate Change to be held in Bangkok, 31 July- 3 August

Bangkok (United Nations Information Services) The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), in cooperation with the Ministry of the Environment of Japan (MOEJ), is co-hosting the 17th Asia-Pacific Seminar on Climate Change, to be held from 31 July to 3 August, 2007, in Bangkok.

The seminar series started in the early 1990s to promote the exchange of ideas between businesses, non-governmental organizations and government policymakers. It has produced a number of important outcomes, such as cooperation between Japan and China on climate change issues. This year’s seminar is expected to attract participants from between 25 to 30 countries.

The focus of the seminar will be on development goals and climate change. Special attention will be given to initiatives which reduce greenhouse gas emissions while advancing development objectives.

One prominent example of a technology that combats climate change while providing economic benefits is the use of landfills to generate electricity. When garbage in a landfill decomposes, it produces methane − a potent greenhouse gas. However, with new technology, these gases can be captured and used to generate electricity.

Other examples of climate friendly initiatives that produce economic growth abound. Public transportation projects, energy efficiency initiatives and reforestation projects help to fight climate change while easing traffic congestion, improving energy security and slowing soil erosion.

A study tour by the participants of a Siam Cement Group factory will highlight energy efficiency measures which help reduce carbon emissions while maintaining the corporate bottom line.

The seminar will be held with the support of a series of partners, including the Australian Greenhouse Office (AGO), Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of Thailand (MNRE), and Overseas Environmental Cooperation Center, Japan (OECC).

Note to Journalists: You are invited to cover the seminar at the Imperial Queen’s Park Hotel, Bangkok. Please refer to attached tentative programme of the meeting for lists of topics and speakers.

For more information, please visit http://www.ap-net.org/seminar/h01.html or contact: