Evaluating Impact of Low Carbon Policies and Programs

David Akana
African Development bank (AfDB)
Senior KM and Communication Specialist
Blog Date:

Low carbon development gained prominence at the 2009 United Nations Climate Change Summit in Copenhagen. Since then, many countries have established low emissions growth strategies aligned to their national development plans. But as countries seek to invest in low carbon initiatives in order to reduce poverty and achieve the overarching goal of sustainable development, it is still not certain what works and what does not.

Governments, Non Governmental Organizations, businesses and the development parners at all levels are creating new low carbon programs and establishing energy related policies. What do we know right now with respect to their success or failures? How often do policy makers and implementers of interventions discuss to improve on necessary processes?

We just got news that a conference to assess the potential and actual impacts of low carbon policies and programs will take place in Berlin, Germany from September 9-11, 2014. About 80 participants are expected to attend.

This conference, we also learn is expected to bring together various stakeholders (evaluators, implementers, decision makers and students) to discuss various ways in which policies and programs related to low carbon energy can be improved. In addition, the conference will examine challenges linked to evaluating new interventions so as to provide a strong foundation for further investment in low emission projects.

According to organizers, "the core product of this conference is the documentation of unbiased, peer-reviewed evaluations that establish the basis for accurate information and provide credible evidence of program success or failure. In addition, the Conference presents information on current issues, market assessments, emerging technologies, and alternatives to traditional centralized supply-side options. The presentation, discussion, and publication of these analyses make important information publicly available."

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