Training on Integrated Monitoring Reporting and Verification Bolsters Solomon Islands Capacity to Respond to Climate Change

May 20, 2024

Participants of the weeklong training on the Integrated Monitoring Reporting Verification software.

UNDP

Honiara, Solomon Islands: The Climate Change Division (CCD) of the Ministry of Environment, Climate, Disaster, and Meteorology (MECDM) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) successfully concluded a comprehensive weeklong training on the Integrated Monitoring Reporting Verification software (iMRV). This pivotal event underscores Solomon Island's commitment to meeting its obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.

Over 30 participants from government ministries, civil society organizations, and the private sector received hands-on instruction on iMRV's functionalities, data structure, and software capabilities. Notably, representatives from ministries such as National Planning and Development Coordination, Finance and Treasury, as well as sectors including Agriculture, Energy, Forest, Transport, and Waste actively practiced with the software, offering valuable feedback for further enhancements.

The iMRV software provides the Government of Solomon Islands with the capacity to track, verify and report on its national greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory, measure progress in GHG mitigation and adaptation actions, and monitor Means of Implementation (MOI). More importantly, it will track and measure the impacts of climate action policies, programs and projects on the achievement of the related National Development Strategy for Solomon Islands and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Solomon Islands' Minister for Environment, Climate Change Disaster Management and Meteorology, Honourable Trevor Mahanga (third from left) amongst participants at the training.

UNDP

During the training's opening ceremony, the new Minister for Environment, Climate Change Disaster Management and Meteorology, Honourable Trevor Mahanga highlighted that climate change is the single most defining issue facing the Pacific Islands, including Solomon Islands.  As such, “It is befitting that I start my official duty as minister addressing this challenge,” said Hon. Mahanga.

Central to the Paris Agreement is the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF), which mandates rigorous reporting on climate actions and support provided. The development of iMRV aligns with Solomon Islands’ obligations under the ETF, facilitating transparent reporting on GHG emissions, adaptation efforts, and support received.

The iMRV initiative, developed in collaboration with UNDP and Subbarao Consulting Services, marks a significant milestone in Solomon Islands’ climate action journey.

Supported by the Australian Government (DFAT), this innovative tool will play a crucial role in preparing the country´s Biennial Transparency Report, due by the end of 2024.

UNDP Operations Manager, Mr. Patrick Pee, expressed UNDP's commitment to supporting Solomon Islands’ in fulfilling its climate pledges. The iMRV software, previously implemented in various countries, reflects UNDP's dedication to assisting nations in their transition to a low-carbon future.

The successful completion of the iMRV training signifies Solomon Islands’ proactive stance in addressing climate change and fulfilling its international commitments. Moving forward, the integration of iMRV into the country's climate governance framework will strengthen transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making in climate action.

For more information or media inquiries please contact:

Daniel C. Gonzalez, Communications Specialist, UNDP Solomon Islands Office, daniel.calderon.gonzalez@undp.org  +677 7740 740/ +34 656 565 270