Ecologic Institute leads a multi-year project for the European Commission to design and implement outreach and capacity building activities on emissions trading for developing countries. Activities include ten Summer Universities and training courses carried out on behalf of the International Carbon Action Partnership (ICAP) as well as an eLearning and stakeholder information platform.

Through this project, Ecologic Institute helps meet a growing need for improved understanding of emissions trading as an instrument of climate policy in emerging economies and developing countries. It builds on a well-established format and continues the successful series of Summer Schools and Training Courses implemented by the Ecologic Institute in different locations around the world since 2009.

Specifically, the course will comprise annual Summer Universities held in Europe, targeting participants from around the world; annual region- or country-specific Training Courses in locations outside Europe; and an eLearning platform that offers online tools for knowledge transfer, network building and longer-term alumni involvement. Going beyond the established format of the previous courses, the course curriculum and complementary activities will be taken to a new level by following a modular structure that allows for greater differentiation and flexibility.

Throughout the activities, an advanced didactic concept is applied, with a focus on practical knowledge and real-life examples. Interactive formats support active discussion and knowledge exchange both among participants, and between participants and expert faculty so as to foster strong, enduring networks. Use of interactive elements will help apply, test, and consolidate the knowledge gained, including frequent group exercises, simulations and games, and discussions in small break-out groups that actively place participants in the role of regulators and stakeholders.

Acknowledging that a format requiring physical attendance is insufficient to satisfy the current demand for capacity development and training, the eLearning platform will offer scalability to larger audiences and ensure participant involvement and network-building beyond the duration of the training courses. An online platform will be integrated into the Summer University concept, both serving attendees of the training courses and a broader group of participants and interested audiences.

The five-year project is funded by the European Union, and implemented in cooperation with the International Carbon Action Partnership (ICAP) and the project partners, Development Solutions Ltd (UK/China).