COP21 objectives : towards a joint energy transition in the Mediterranean?

Published : Tuesday 01 December 2015
Louis Boisgibault, expert associé
Convinced that regional integration between the two shores of the Mediterranean can be structured around large-scale sectoral projects, and especially in the energy sector, IPEMED’s preparatory works for the COP21 relied on formerly published studies, and in particular on the Mediterranean Energy Community, as well as on the carbon constraint in the Euro-Mediterranean space.

The concept of “carbon constraint” comes from the application of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol, which resulted in the implementation, since 2005, of the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) by EU countries.

While European countries committed to respect emission reduction targets (so called “Annex 1” countries of the UNFCCC and “Annex B” countries of the Kyoto Protocol), SEMC, like other emerging countries, have so far followed the principle of “common but differentiated responsibility” which did not tied them to constraining objectives of greenhouse gas emission reductions.

The COP21 is therefore essential since it must lead to a new international and legally binding agreement on climate, applicable to all countries, that is to say to both northern Mediterranean countries and PSEM, in order to maintain global warming under 2°C by 2100.

The paper wrote by M Louis Boisgibault explore the main stakes linked to Mediterranean energy transition and points out the interest of a joint and concerted approach. 
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