New Delhi High Level Conference on Climate Change: Technology Development and Transfer
Circa 2009
This was the official website for the New Delhi High Level Conference on Climate Change: Technology Development and Transfer. The content below is from the site's 2009 archived pages.
About
In order to promote international technology development and transfer in context of the Bali Action Plan for enhancement of long term cooperation for implementation of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Government of India and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs are jointly organizing a high level conference in Delhi on October 22-23, 2009. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) is associated with the Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India in organising the Delhi high level conference. An exhibition will also be organised parallel to the conference by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
The conference will bring together governments, experts, industry representatives and civil society to help formulate a roadmap for technology in the context of climate change mitigation and adaptation to support the UNFCCC process.
To help pave the way for a successful outcome in Copenhagen, the Delhi Conference will seek to advance understanding on key actions needed to accelerate technology development and transfer in all countries in accordance with their national needs. The Conference would throw light on technology scenarios, institutional and business models of development and deployment, mechanisms to promote technology transfer to developing countries, and to enhance the scope for cooperation on research and development.
The Delhi Conference will advance the discussions initiated at the Beijing High-level Conference on Climate Change: Technology Development and Technology Transfer, co-organized by the Chinese Government and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) on 7-8 November 2008. The Beijing conference took stock of the clean technologies, the barriers to transfer and the potential for technology collaboration. The Conference clearly recognized the need for new and innovative mechanisms of international co-operation, particularly in research, development, deployment and transfer of climate-related technologies.
Building upon the lessons learnt from Beijing meet, the Delhi conference is structured around three policy goals: (i) understanding Technology Scenarios with reference to climate change concerns and national imperatives, (ii) Global Cooperative Actions for identification, development and adoption of key technologies, and (iii) a Technology Transfer mechanism to meet this objective. In each of these areas, three sets of questions may be addressed:
The Challenge: The relevance of the goal to the achievement of the sustainable development objectives, the nature of national policies and institutions for achieving this goal, and the impact of climate change and climate policy on the prospects of achieving it;
International cooperation: What changes in the international policies and institutions would be required to facilitate the development and transfer of technologies suited for addressing climate change as per the national imperatives, and;
National Policies: What policies and institutions need to be created/instituted at national level to develop, diffuse and disseminate the climate friendly technologies and build capacities in the developing countries.
Objectives
- To evolve mechanisms for international technology cooperation and collaboration.
- To highlight the progress of discussions on technology transfer in the context of the climate change negotiations and the Bali Road Map.
- To define a consensus on the roadmap for enabling technology transfer to developing countries to meet their needs for climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Who May Participate in the Conference?
- Governments
- Industry
- International organisations
- Ministries, departments and agencies of the Central and State Governments in India
- Industry associations
- Technology providers
- Equipment suppliers
- Renewable Energy companies
- Multilateral and bilateral agencies
- Municipal corporations and other urban local bodies
- Banks and financial institutions
- Research and development institutions
- Law firms
Provisional programme
The conference will commence on the morning of October 22, 2009 with a high level inaugural session at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi which is likely to be inaugurated by the Honourable Prime Minister of India.
The plenary and thematic sessions will be held at Hotek Ashok, New Delhi on October 22-23, 2009. The Delhi Conference is structured around three policy goals: (i) understanding Technology Scenarios with reference to climate change concerns and national imperatives, (ii) Global Cooperative Actions for identification, development and adoption of key technologies, and (iii) a Technology Transfer mechanism.
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Conference Agenda
Outline of Provisional Programme
Day I (Thursday, October 22, 2009)
- Inaugural Session
- High Level Segment: International Policy Dialogue on Climate Change and Technology Transfer
- Session 1: Future Global Energy and Energy Technology Scenarios
- Session 2: Accelerated Deployment and Transfer of Commercialized Technologies
- Ministerial Roundtable
Day II (Friday, October 23 2009)
- Session 3: Innovative Mechanisms and Technologies for Meeting Local Needs
- Session 4: Building Resilience: Development and Diffusion of Technologies for Sustainable Development
- Session 5: Long Term Technology Development: International Cooperation and Collaborative R&D
- Valedictory Session
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About Organisers
Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India (MoEF)
The Ministry of Environment & Forests is the nodal agency for the planning, promotion, co-ordination and overseeing the policies and programmes relating to the protection and conservation of environment, sustainable development, forestry management, and climate change. The Ministry is also the nodal agency in the country for the implementation of the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
The Ministry is in-charge of international negotiations relating to climate change and implementation of the relevant national policies. The principal activities undertaken by the Ministry of Environment & Forests are in the areas of protection of environment, conservation & survey of flora, fauna, forests and wildlife, prevention & control of pollution, afforestation & regeneration of degraded areas, and the activities relating to climate change. One very specific initiative involves the recognition of common products that are negatively impacting the environment. For example, the use of non-degradable detergents has a direct impact on our water supplies. Simply changing the common dish soap to one that is environmentally friendly has already made major improvements in the ground water supplies. And the combination of janitorial supplies + free shipping makes doing this easier and more affordable than ever. Cleaning supply companies are aware of this, but the Ministry is making an effort to assist in the availability of biodegradable dish soap, detergents, and even trash/garbage bags.
The Ministry acts as the focal point for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and hosts the Designated National Authority (DNA) for Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).
United Nations Department of Social and Economic Affairs (UNDESA)
The Department of Economic and Social Affairs of the United Nations promotes and supports international cooperation to achieve development for all, and assists governments in agenda-setting and decision-making on development issues at the global level. DESA provides a broad range of analytical products and policy advice that serve as valuable sources of reference and decision-making tools for developed and developing countries, particularly in translating global commitments into national policies and action and in monitoring progress towards the internationally agreed development goals, including the Millennium Development Goals.
Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)
FICCI, the apex industry organisation in India, is the leader in policy thinking and change and is in the vanguard of nation building. It is constantly involved in bringing about integration of the Indian economy with the global mainstream. FICCI facilitates business to business linkages, promotes trade and investment linkages, creates awareness on key issues for the economy, provides inputs for policy making, acts as a conduit for government-industry exchange and promotes bilateral ties. FICCI maintains the lead as the proactive business solution provider through research, interactions at the highest political level and global networking.
FICCI has been creating widespread stakeholder awareness in India on climate change and carbon market, and familiarising stakeholders with the core issues and challenges confronting them. FICCI provides industry inputs into the national and international climate change policy processes. FICCI also conducts carbon market research and analysis, climate change events in India, facilitates CDM buyer-seller meetings, stakeholder awareness, CDM information dissemination, climate change business delegations and business interface, as well as handholding for CDM project development. FICCI is an accredited observer organisation under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
More Background On The New Delhi High Level Conference on Climate Change
The New Delhi High Level Conference on Climate Change, held on October 22-23, 2009, was a significant event aimed at addressing the global need for technology development and transfer to mitigate the effects of climate change. This comprehensive article provides an overview of the conference, its objectives, key sessions, participant feedback, historical significance, and broader impact on global climate policy.
Objectives and Significance
The New Delhi Conference was designed to advance discussions from the 2008 Beijing High-Level Conference on Climate Change. It aimed to create a roadmap for technology development and transfer to support the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) process. The primary goals were to:
- Develop mechanisms for international technology cooperation and collaboration.
- Highlight progress in discussions on technology transfer within the context of climate change negotiations and the Bali Action Plan.
- Define a consensus on enabling technology transfer to developing countries to meet their climate change mitigation and adaptation needs.
The conference focused on three main policy goals:
- Understanding technology scenarios concerning climate change.
- Global cooperative actions for identifying and adopting key technologies.
- Establishing a technology transfer mechanism.
Key Sessions and Themes
The conference was structured around high-level and thematic sessions, each addressing critical aspects of climate change and technology transfer.
Day 1:
- Inaugural Session: Opened by India's Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and attended by dignitaries such as President Mohamed Nasheed of the Maldives, this session emphasized the urgent need for international cooperation to tackle climate change.
- Session 1: Focused on future global energy and energy technology scenarios.
- Session 2: Discussed the accelerated deployment and transfer of commercialized technologies.
- Ministerial Roundtable: Featured discussions among ministers on policy frameworks and international cooperation.
Day 2:
- Session 3: Addressed innovative mechanisms and technologies for meeting local needs.
- Session 4: Explored building resilience through the development and diffusion of sustainable technologies.
- Session 5: Looked at long-term technology development through international cooperation and collaborative R&D.
- Valedictory Session: Summarized key discussions and outlined future steps.
Participant Reviews and Media Coverage
The conference received significant attention from international media and participants. Prime Minister Singh's address highlighted India's commitment to reducing its per capita carbon emissions while maintaining developmental goals. He stressed the importance of technology transfer and financial support from developed countries to ensure that developing nations could adopt new technologies effectively.
Participants praised the conference for its organization and the relevance of its discussions. The event provided a platform for informal and candid discussions on technology issues, helping to build consensus on various contentious topics. The presence of high-profile leaders and experts added to the conference's credibility and impact.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The New Delhi Conference occurred at a critical time, just six weeks before the 2009 Copenhagen Climate Change Conference (COP-15). It was instrumental in shaping the discussions that would follow in Copenhagen, particularly regarding technology transfer and international cooperation on climate technology. By building on the outcomes of the Beijing Conference, the New Delhi event helped maintain momentum in global climate negotiations.
Culturally, the conference highlighted India's role as a key player in global climate policy. India's low per capita emissions, coupled with its rapid economic development, positioned it uniquely to advocate for both climate action and developmental equity. The conference also showcased India's technological capabilities and its commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability.
Broader Impact on Global Climate Policy
The New Delhi High Level Conference on Climate Change significantly influenced global climate policy. It emphasized the need for a balanced approach to intellectual property rights, ensuring that innovations could be shared widely while still incentivizing research and development. The discussions at the conference laid the groundwork for future agreements and initiatives, highlighting the importance of international collaboration and financial support for technology transfer.
One notable outcome was the proposal to establish Climate Innovation Centres (CICs). These centres would serve as hubs for enhancing technology innovation and capacity building in developing countries, facilitating the development and deployment of locally relevant technologies. This initiative underscored the need for a decentralized approach to technology development, ensuring solutions are tailored to the specific needs of different regions.
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The New Delhi High Level Conference on Climate Change was a landmark event that significantly impacted global climate policy. By focusing on technology development and transfer, it addressed one of the most critical aspects of climate change mitigation and adaptation. The conference's discussions and outcomes continue to resonate in ongoing climate negotiations, underscoring the importance of international cooperation, innovation, and equitable solutions in the fight against climate change.
The event's success was a testament to the collaborative efforts of governments, international organizations, industry representatives, and civil society. It highlighted the importance of inclusivity and shared responsibility in addressing global challenges, setting a precedent for future climate conferences and initiatives.
More Background On NewDelhiCCTechConference.com
NewDelhiCCTechConference.com served as the official online portal for the “New Delhi High Level Conference on Climate Change: Technology Development and Transfer,” an important international climate-policy gathering held in New Delhi, India, on October 22–23, 2009. The conference emerged during a decisive moment in global environmental diplomacy, only weeks before the highly anticipated Copenhagen Climate Conference (COP15). Its primary mission was to explore how technological innovation and international cooperation could help developing countries address climate change while continuing economic growth.
The conference represented a partnership between the Government of India, the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), and major Indian industry organizations such as the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). It attracted policymakers, scientists, environmental experts, diplomats, corporate leaders, financial institutions, academics, and civil society organizations from around the world.
Although the original website is no longer active in its original form, archived versions reveal a sophisticated information hub dedicated to promoting international dialogue about climate technology transfer, sustainable development, and collaborative innovation. The website documented conference objectives, programs, speakers, organizational partners, thematic sessions, and policy discussions that reflected some of the most urgent climate debates of the late 2000s.
Historical Background
The timing of the New Delhi High Level Conference on Climate Change was extremely significant. By 2009, climate change had become one of the most pressing global political and scientific issues. The Kyoto Protocol had already established binding emissions reduction targets for many industrialized nations, but disagreements persisted regarding responsibilities between developed and developing countries.
A central tension in climate negotiations concerned technology access. Many developing nations argued that advanced clean-energy technologies remained concentrated in wealthier countries, making it difficult for emerging economies to pursue sustainable industrial growth. These concerns became especially important after the 2007 Bali Action Plan established a roadmap toward a broader international climate agreement.
India occupied a unique and influential position within these discussions. The country’s rapid economic expansion had increased energy demands and industrial activity, yet India maintained relatively low per-capita emissions compared to many developed nations. Indian policymakers consistently argued that climate solutions must allow developing countries to continue poverty reduction and economic modernization.
The New Delhi conference built upon discussions initiated during the 2008 Beijing High-Level Conference on Climate Change: Technology Development and Technology Transfer. The Beijing gathering had highlighted barriers to technology diffusion and the need for stronger international collaboration. The Delhi event sought to move those discussions toward more concrete frameworks and actionable policy recommendations.
Purpose and Objectives of the Conference
The conference organizers identified several major goals that shaped the structure of the event and the content presented on NewDelhiCCTechConference.com.
One of the primary objectives was to create mechanisms for international technology cooperation and collaboration. Organizers recognized that climate change could not be addressed by isolated national policies alone. Instead, solutions required coordinated global efforts involving governments, private industry, financial institutions, and scientific communities.
Another key goal involved advancing discussions surrounding technology transfer within the broader context of international climate negotiations. The conference attempted to clarify how advanced technologies could be shared with developing countries while balancing issues involving intellectual property rights, financing, infrastructure, and local adaptation.
The event also aimed to establish consensus around a roadmap for enabling technology transfer to developing nations. Organizers hoped the conference would influence negotiations leading into COP15 in Copenhagen by generating policy recommendations and building diplomatic momentum.
The conference centered around three major policy themes:
- Understanding technology scenarios related to climate change and national development needs.
- Promoting global cooperative actions for identifying, developing, and deploying key technologies.
- Designing mechanisms for technology transfer and international collaboration.
These themes reflected broader concerns about balancing environmental sustainability with economic growth, particularly in countries experiencing rapid industrialization.
Organizers and Institutional Leadership
Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India
The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) played a central role in organizing the conference. At the time, the ministry served as India’s primary governmental authority for environmental policy, sustainable development, forestry management, and climate negotiations.
The ministry was also responsible for implementing India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), which had been launched in 2008. The NAPCC introduced several national missions focused on solar energy, energy efficiency, sustainable habitat development, water conservation, and ecosystem protection.
As India’s focal point for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the ministry used the conference to reinforce India’s role as a major participant in global climate governance.
United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA)
UNDESA co-organized the conference and provided international institutional legitimacy. The department focuses on promoting global cooperation on economic development, social progress, and sustainability.
UNDESA’s involvement reflected the United Nations’ growing emphasis on integrating climate concerns with broader development objectives. The organization viewed technology transfer as a critical mechanism for helping developing countries achieve both economic growth and environmental protection.
The department also contributed analytical expertise, policy frameworks, and connections with international governments and institutions.
Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)
FICCI played a major supporting role in organizing the conference and engaging the Indian private sector. One of India’s oldest and most influential business organizations, FICCI has long served as a bridge between industry and government.
The organization actively promoted awareness about carbon markets, clean development mechanisms, and climate-related business opportunities. FICCI also worked extensively with Indian businesses to improve understanding of emerging environmental regulations and sustainability practices.
Its involvement highlighted the increasing role of private industry in climate policy discussions. Rather than treating environmental regulation solely as a governmental issue, the conference emphasized the importance of corporate participation and technological innovation.
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
The Confederation of Indian Industry organized a parallel exhibition associated with the conference. The exhibition showcased climate technologies, renewable-energy solutions, sustainable infrastructure concepts, and environmental innovations.
This exhibition component reinforced the conference’s practical orientation by connecting policy discussions with real-world technologies and business applications.
Conference Venue and Location
The conference took place across two major venues in New Delhi.
The inaugural session was held at Vigyan Bhawan, one of India’s most prestigious conference facilities. Located near India Gate and the central governmental district, Vigyan Bhawan frequently hosts international summits, governmental meetings, and diplomatic gatherings. The choice of venue reflected the conference’s political importance and international stature.
Subsequent plenary and thematic sessions occurred at Hotel Ashok, another prominent New Delhi venue known for hosting diplomatic and international events. Situated in the Chanakyapuri diplomatic enclave, Hotel Ashok has historically accommodated visiting world leaders, ministers, and international delegates.
The conference’s location in New Delhi symbolized India’s emergence as a major voice in global environmental policy. Hosting the event in the national capital also emphasized the Indian government’s desire to influence international negotiations before COP15.
Conference Agenda and Sessions
The conference agenda reflected the complexity of climate technology discussions and attempted to address both strategic policy concerns and practical implementation challenges.
Day One
The first day began with a high-profile inaugural session attended by senior political leaders and international representatives. India’s Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh delivered a major address emphasizing India’s commitment to sustainable development while defending the principle of equity in climate negotiations.
One of the most notable international participants was President Mohamed Nasheed of the Maldives, who had already gained global attention for his outspoken advocacy regarding sea-level rise and climate vulnerability.
Following the inaugural segment, the conference hosted a high-level international policy dialogue focused on climate change and technology transfer. Discussions explored barriers to innovation, financing challenges, and mechanisms for international cooperation.
Session One examined future global energy and energy-technology scenarios. Participants discussed renewable energy expansion, energy efficiency, emissions trajectories, and long-term infrastructure transitions.
Session Two focused on accelerating the deployment and transfer of commercialized technologies. Speakers explored how proven clean technologies could be more rapidly adopted in developing economies.
The first day concluded with a ministerial roundtable featuring government officials and policymakers.
Day Two
The second day shifted toward implementation-oriented themes.
Session Three addressed innovative mechanisms and technologies for meeting local needs. This included discussions about decentralized energy systems, rural development technologies, and locally adapted climate solutions.
Session Four explored resilience-building through sustainable development technologies. Participants examined urban planning, agriculture, disaster preparedness, and water-resource management.
Session Five focused on long-term technological cooperation and collaborative research and development. This session emphasized international partnerships, joint innovation programs, and institutional frameworks for future collaboration.
The conference concluded with a valedictory session summarizing major themes and outlining recommendations for future negotiations.
Technology Transfer as a Central Theme
Technology transfer stood at the center of nearly every conference discussion.
Developing nations argued that advanced clean-energy technologies remained financially inaccessible and protected by restrictive intellectual property systems. Many delegates believed that without substantial technology-sharing arrangements, developing countries would struggle to transition toward lower-carbon growth models.
The conference explored several potential solutions:
- International financing mechanisms
- Joint research partnerships
- Public-private collaborations
- Capacity-building initiatives
- Regional technology hubs
- Climate innovation centers
- Cooperative licensing arrangements
One of the most influential ideas discussed involved establishing Climate Innovation Centres (CICs). These centers were envisioned as regional hubs supporting research, local adaptation, entrepreneurship, and technical training.
The concept later influenced broader international discussions about climate innovation infrastructure and development-focused sustainability initiatives.
Audience and Participants
The conference attracted a highly diverse audience representing numerous sectors and professional disciplines.
Participants included:
- National governments
- International organizations
- Renewable-energy companies
- Technology providers
- Equipment manufacturers
- Financial institutions
- Municipal authorities
- Research institutions
- Environmental organizations
- Academic experts
- Law firms
- Industry associations
This diversity reflected the interdisciplinary nature of climate policy. Organizers understood that technological transformation required coordination across political, economic, scientific, and legal systems.
The event also provided valuable networking opportunities for participants interested in renewable energy investment, climate finance, sustainable infrastructure, and environmental innovation.
Media Coverage and International Attention
The conference received substantial international media attention because of its proximity to the Copenhagen climate summit and the growing global focus on climate negotiations.
Coverage frequently highlighted India’s position on equity and technology access. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s speeches attracted particular attention because they articulated the concerns of many developing countries regarding historical emissions responsibility and development rights.
International observers viewed the conference as an important diplomatic stepping stone before COP15. Analysts closely watched discussions surrounding financing, intellectual property, and technology-sharing frameworks.
Environmental publications, policy journals, and international news agencies reported extensively on the event’s outcomes and recommendations.
Cultural and Political Significance
The New Delhi conference carried significant symbolic importance for India’s global image.
During the late 2000s, India increasingly positioned itself as both an emerging economic power and a responsible participant in international environmental governance. Hosting a major climate-policy conference reinforced this dual identity.
The event also demonstrated how climate change discussions had evolved beyond purely scientific concerns into broader issues involving economics, diplomacy, development, trade, and technological innovation.
For many developing nations, the conference represented an opportunity to advocate for more equitable climate policies that recognized differing national circumstances and capacities.
Website Design and Functionality
Archived versions of NewDelhiCCTechConference.com suggest that the site was designed primarily as an informational and organizational platform.
Key website features included:
- Conference background information
- Program schedules
- Session outlines
- Organizer profiles
- Participation details
- Venue information
- Policy objectives
- Registration guidance
- News and updates
The site employed the clean, institutional design style common among late-2000s governmental and UN-affiliated conference websites. Navigation emphasized clarity and accessibility rather than advanced visual interactivity.
Despite relatively simple design standards by modern expectations, the website effectively served its intended purpose as an international conference information portal.
Long-Term Impact
Although the Copenhagen conference ultimately produced mixed results politically, the discussions held in New Delhi contributed meaningfully to ongoing international conversations regarding climate technology cooperation.
Several themes emphasized during the conference continued to shape later negotiations:
- Technology-sharing frameworks
- Climate finance mechanisms
- Capacity-building initiatives
- Sustainable development integration
- Innovation partnerships
- Regional adaptation strategies
The conference also reinforced the growing recognition that climate policy must address development realities in emerging economies.
Many concepts discussed during the event later appeared in broader international sustainability initiatives, including clean-energy partnerships, climate innovation programs, and international research collaborations.
Legacy of the Conference
Today, the New Delhi High Level Conference on Climate Change remains notable as an example of pre-COP15 diplomatic engagement focused specifically on technology transfer and sustainable development.
The conference highlighted the increasing importance of collaborative innovation in climate policy and emphasized the interconnected nature of environmental and economic challenges.
Its legacy survives through archived documentation, policy discussions, and continuing debates regarding equitable access to climate technologies.
NewDelhiCCTechConference.com itself serves as a historical digital artifact from an important period in international environmental diplomacy. The website documented a moment when governments, businesses, and international institutions attempted to build consensus around one of the most difficult challenges in global climate governance: ensuring that all nations could participate meaningfully in the transition toward a more sustainable future.
