Imagine a world where the air is cleaner, our health is better, and our planet is more stable. This is the future Kazakhstan is striving for, but a major hurdle stands in the way: Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs) from coal mining. These pollutants, like methane, have a disproportionately large impact on global warming and air quality. Now, Kazakhstan is taking bold steps to tackle this challenge head-on, and you're about to learn how. But here's where it gets controversial... tackling coal mining emissions can be a politically sensitive issue, as it directly impacts a major industry.
Overview: A Breath of Fresh Air for Kazakhstan
At the request of the Government of Kazakhstan, specifically through its Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources (MENR), an exciting project is underway. The core mission? To develop a robust strategy for mitigating Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs) specifically within Kazakhstan's coal mining sector. This also includes creating a top-notch system for Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) of these pollutants. Think of it as a comprehensive plan to track and reduce harmful emissions. This initiative is built on Kazakhstan's existing commitment to enhancing air quality and greenhouse gas (GHG) monitoring, aligning perfectly with its pledges under the Global Methane Pledge and its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement.
The project's approach is multifaceted. It involves detailed assessments of SLCP emissions in the coal mining sector. This isn't just about identifying the problem; it's about quantifying it, updating existing inventories, and developing specific, actionable mitigation measures. The project will also provide recommendations to the government on effective policies and regulations. And this is the part most people miss... it's not just about the big picture. The project is also focused on building local capacity through technical workshops and training sessions. This will empower Kazakh institutions and experts to monitor, report on, and reduce SLCPs effectively in the long term.
Currently, Kazakhstan addresses methane and SLCP emissions through broader environmental and GHG policies. However, this project signals a shift toward a more targeted approach. By developing a specific SLCP mitigation sub-strategy for the coal mining sector, Kazakhstan is taking a crucial step toward achieving its national climate goals. This will lead to improved air quality, better public health outcomes, and significant economic co-benefits through reduced environmental pollution. For example, reduced respiratory illnesses could lead to lower healthcare costs and increased productivity.
Who's Involved? A Collaborative Effort
This project is a collaborative effort, bringing together key players from various sectors:
- The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan (MENR): The driving force behind the project, providing leadership and guidance.
- JSC Zhasyl Damu: A subsidiary of MENR and the operator of the Emission Trading System. They're responsible for GHG inventory management and NDC preparation.
- Nazarbayev University (or another designated university): Providing academic expertise and research support.
- The Ministry of Energy: Crucial for aligning the project with energy sector policies and practices.
- Other line ministries and subsidiary organizations: Ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated approach across government.
- Industry associations: Engaging with the coal mining industry to promote sustainable practices.
- Civil society organizations in Kazakhstan: Representing the interests of the public and advocating for environmental protection.
- International partners: Collaborating with organizations like the Clean Air Task Force (CATF) and Carbon Limits to leverage their expertise and experience.
Expected Results: A Vision of Success
The project aims to achieve three key outcomes:
Outcome 1: Enhanced MRV System
The goal is for the Government of Kazakhstan to adopt an enhanced Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) system specifically tailored for the coal mining sub-sector by the project's end or shortly thereafter. This means having a robust and transparent system in place to track and verify SLCP emissions reductions.
Indicator: The number of MRV systems developed or updated to include SLCPs.
Outputs:
- Organizing study tours and knowledge exchange programs on best practices in coal mining MRV and remote sensing applications. This includes engaging with leading institutions like the US EPA, WMO, and Copernicus.
- Developing user-friendly manuals and guidelines for consistent reporting and verification of coal mining emissions. Think of it as creating a standardized playbook for the industry.
- Reviewing and updating existing coal emissions coefficients and characterization studies. This involves developing more detailed emission factors to improve accuracy.
- Establishing procedures and guidelines for annual updates of emission coefficients to ensure the MRV system remains current and relevant.
- Conducting a pilot study on remote sensing applications for SLCP measurement in coal mining. This involves exploring innovative technologies to monitor emissions more effectively.
Outcome 2: Increased Capacity for SLCP Reduction
The project aims to significantly increase the Government of Kazakhstan's capacity to assess and reduce SLCPs from coal mining. This means equipping government entities with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to tackle this challenge effectively.
Indicator: The number of government entities with improved capacity for SLCP action.
Outputs:
- Delivering comprehensive training to MENR officials and relevant agencies on SLCP monitoring, MRV system operation, and emission reduction techniques.
- Developing tailored training materials, manuals, and case studies specific to Kazakhstan's coal sector. This ensures the training is relevant and practical.
- Providing technical assistance to government entities for the implementation of SLCP mitigation measures. This involves offering hands-on support to help them implement the strategies effectively.
- Facilitating knowledge-sharing platforms and webinars among national institutions to exchange best practices and challenges. This fosters collaboration and learning.
- Integrating SLCP reduction strategies into regulatory updates for the coal mining sector and aligning them with Kazakhstan's NDCs. This ensures that SLCP mitigation is embedded in policy frameworks.
- Conducting advocacy and stakeholder engagement campaigns to promote the inclusion of SLCP considerations in forthcoming policy frameworks. This raises awareness and builds support for SLCP mitigation.
Outcome 3: SLCP Mitigation Sub-Strategy
The ultimate goal is for the Government of Kazakhstan to promote an SLCP mitigation sub-strategy or an enhanced regulatory framework specifically for the coal mining sector. This signifies a long-term commitment to reducing SLCP emissions.
Indicator: The number of action plans, roadmaps, strategies, or other future plans with SLCP targets or mitigation measures that are formally adopted, endorsed, and/or implemented.
Outputs:
- Supporting the development and validation of the SLCP mitigation sub-strategy by providing local data, context, and stakeholder feedback. This ensures the strategy is grounded in reality and reflects the needs of the community.
- Organizing consultation meetings and workshops with national institutions – including MENR, the Ministry of Energy, JSC Zhasyl Damu, and academic partners – to validate project findings and recommendations. This fosters buy-in and ensures the strategy is technically sound.
- Facilitating local dissemination of outputs, including translation, adaptation, and communication of materials for integration into national regulatory frameworks. This ensures the strategy is accessible and effectively implemented.
Application Process: How to Get Involved
If you're an organization passionate about environmental sustainability and eager to contribute to this vital project, here's what you need to know about the application process:
Eligibility Requirements:
To be considered, project proposals must meet the following criteria:
- Be complete and submitted before the deadline.
- Be submitted by a non-governmental organization (NGO), intergovernmental organization (IGO), or other not-for-profit entity.
- Request funding within the estimated budget amount, or include a clear justification for additional expenses.
- Have a project duration of less than 24 months.
- Meet budget criteria and respect spending caps on expenses.
- Provide the last three (3) audited financial statements to demonstrate financial stability.
For-profit entities can participate as stakeholders, co-funders, or end-users, but they cannot be the primary applicant. Collaboration with for-profit entities is encouraged if their expertise or ownership of the proposed solution is crucial to the project's success.
How to Apply:
Eligible applicants are invited to apply using the Application Form (https://chloe.insightly.services/hf/XYJVJO) and Excel Budget Form (https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fchloe.insightly.services%2Fhf%2FYOTG4M&data=05%7C02%7Ctara.jayaram%40un.org%7C2484ed9ec1534f807b7008ddb983c5c3%7C0f9e35db544f4f60bdcc5ea416e6dc70%7C0%7C0%7C638870697788126532%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=X3mUUU9GP5PJNVZr9U%2BQy0lPthaKul8WQEH8j877CPE%3D&reserved=0). Detailed instructions are available within both documents.
Applicants can propose a budget within the suggested cost range or provide a different budget with a clear justification. Cost-effectiveness will be a significant factor in the selection process.
Submit the completed Application Form and Excel Budget Form to secretariat [at] ccacoalition.org (https://www.ccacoalition.org/calls-for-proposals/2025-calls-proposals-projects-advance-national-policy-and-mitigation-actions/secretariat@ccacoalition.org).
Evaluation Criteria:
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following:
- A clear plan to achieve the required outcomes within the project timeline.
- A plan to scale up, replicate, or sustain project results over time.
- A clear approach to enabling or contributing to SLCP emissions reductions and related co-benefits.
- Involvement of relevant stakeholders.
- A strong understanding of relevant risks.
- Complementarity with other relevant initiatives, funding mechanisms, and existing policy processes.
- Demonstrated capacity and experience to perform the work.
- A realistic, cost-effective, and clearly justified budget and approach.
- Meeting the minimum requirements for the OECD DAC gender equality marker Score 1.
Selection Process:
The selection process involves several stages:
- A preliminary review by the CCAC Secretariat, Funding Task Team, and Board, in consultation with CCAC Partners.
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited to present their proposals in more detail and answer follow-up questions.
- Successful applicants will develop a Project Implementation Plan and Detailed Budget in consultation with the CCAC Secretariat and CCAC Partners.
The selection process can take up to 6 months after the call for proposals closes. Due to the high volume of requests, the CCAC will not provide updates or feedback during this time.
Due Diligence and Procurement:
CCAC implementers with UNEP contractual agreements must meet specific requirements, including:
- Adequate financial resources.
- Proof of registration, not-for-profit status, and audited financial statements for the past three fiscal years.
- A record of satisfactory performance with UNEP/CCAC (if applicable).
- Not being suspended or debarred by UNEP/CCAC or another UN agency.
(Inter)governmental entities/United Nations are exempt from some of these requirements.
Selected organizations must adhere to United Nations due diligence and procurement rules. As a general rule, Implementation Agreements allow for incidental procurement only.
Contract Requirements:
If selected for funding, your project will be contracted through the United Nations. Organisation(s) selected to implement the project must meet the following due diligence and procurement rules.
Procurement
As a general rule, Implementation Agreements allow for incidental procurement only.
This project represents a significant step forward in Kazakhstan's commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action. By tackling SLCPs in the coal mining sector, Kazakhstan is not only reducing its environmental impact but also creating a healthier and more prosperous future for its citizens. What are your thoughts on this approach? Do you think focusing on specific sectors like coal mining is the most effective way to tackle climate change, or should the focus be on broader, economy-wide policies? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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