Emissions trading is a market-based instrument for climate change mitigation. From the EU to Mexico and from China to California, more and more jurisdictions around the world use emissions trading as a tool to achieve their climate goals. As of 2022, around 17% of world's emissions are covered by ETS. In Latin America and the Caribbean, Mexico has been the first country to introduce an emissions trading system. Several countries have taken steps towards developing domestic carbon markets, including Brazil, Costa Rica, Panama and Peru. Other countries opted for a carbon tax, such as Argentina Chile, Colombia and Uruguay, but in some instances are also considering carbon market elements to complement the tax.

To support the development and application of emissions trading systems in the region, from 27 February to 3 March 2023, the International Carbon Action Partnership (ICAP) will convene an online Seminar, focusing on Latin America and the Caribbean. As an entry-level training, the one-week Seminar will introduce participants to the basic concepts and key elements of emissions trading. Drawing on examples and experiences from existing systems, the Seminar will explain the main design choices for setting up an ETS and convey solutions for their implementation.

Participation

The seminar targets up to 30 selected participants, who will be selected to ensure a balance of professional backgrounds, nationalities and gender. Applications are invited from entry-level to mid-career staff from the public sector, private sector, civil society and academia; particularly those with roles and responsibilities related to domestic climate policy, but little prior knowledge of emissions trading. Good command of English is required for successful participation. Participation is free and participants will receive a certificate for the course, but there will be a competitive selection process.

Applications are welcome from countries all across Latin America and the Caribbean – both from current residents of these countries, but also from nationals of these countries living outside the region.

Participants of previous ICAP trainings are advised that the curriculum will overlap with the training they have received, as this is designed to be an entry-level activity. The organisers allow the right to prioritise applicants that have not benefitted from previous trainings.

For more information on the online seminar and the application process, please visit the ICAP trainings website.