Capacity gaps in land-based mitigation technologies and practices: A first stock take

Abstract

Land-based mitigation technologies and practices (LMTs) reduce GHG emissions associated with land use and/or enhance terrestrial GHG sinks. This article investigates capacity gaps to successfully facilitate LMT adoption and/or scaling in the regions of Latin America, Europe, North America, sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia. We look at LMTs such as agricultural land management, agroforestry, bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS), biochar, forest management, and peat/wetland management. We used a triangulation method based on literature review, an online survey, and semi-structured interviews with experts from Academia, Industry, NGOs, Local Communities and Government, to capture and analyze the most prominent capacity gaps by LMT and according to regional contexts. This approach identified ‘understanding’, ‘awareness’ and ‘economic/finance’ as the most important capacity gaps when it comes to LMT adoption and scaling across the aforementioned regions. A recommended first step for increased LMT adoption would be to address the knowledge and understanding capacity gaps, which, in turn, could help make LMTs more attractive to stakeholders. Policymakers in cooperation with other stakeholders might reflect on dedicated support policies and regulatory frameworks that level the playing field for LMTs (as compared to mitigation technologies and practices in energy and other sectors). Other good practice examples include market building for LMTs, using emerging carbon markets, designing bottom-up implementation plans in cooperation with local and Indigenous Peoples, increased ecosystems services payments and taking into consideration local and traditional knowledge for successful LMT adoption and scaling.