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The newly introduced
law
on project-based mechanisms (ProMechG), which entered into
force 30 September 2005, was the topic of the Climate Talk on 12
December 2005. At the event the new cooperation partner for the
Climate Talk, the German
Institute for Economic Research (DIW Berlin), was introduced.
At DIW's offices in Berlin-Dahlem, the participants vividly discussed
the ProMechG and its implications for businesses.
The
ProMechG establishes the legal basis for permitting “Joint Implementation
(JI) Projects” and “Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) Projects”.
For reductions of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in foreign countries
that are achieved through such projects, German firms will receive
tradable emission allowances that they can use within the framework
of the EU emissions trading system.
Presentations
were given by Julia
Rüsch (Ecologic), Thomas Forth (Free Lancer at Wuppertal
Institute) and Joachim Schnurr (GFA Envest). Mrs. Rüsch and
Mr. Forth both directly supported the Federal Ministry for the Environment
in drafting the ProMechG,
whereas Mr. Schnurr is affected by the law as project developer.
The ensuing discussion focused on the economic potential and risks
connected with JI- and CDM-projects, opportunities to improve the
legal framework and the question whether the new law created incentives
to conduct these projects in Germany rather than in other European
countries. The cost and duration of project approvals, as well as
additional approval criteria, were discussed.
The
animated discussion was eventually moved to a nearby location, where
the evening drew to a relaxed close.
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