As part of the series of Thematic Studies that have been developed under the EUROCLIMA Programme, the Technical Assistance is currently carrying out a review of best practices of adaptation and mitigation measures of no-regrets and/or with co-benefits, that can be integrated in public policies and regional and national development plans of EUROCLIMA's countries members, drawing from lessons learned and best practices in Latin America, and the European Union. The study is intended for decision makers in the region in order to enhance and mainstream decision-making based on information that is accessible and useful. It is expected that the inventory (online) would be available to the public in mid-year.

As a first step in the preparation of this review the main concpets are being clarified, such as best practices and no-regret measures and/or with co-benefits. According to the definition of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), such measures are those whose benefits are equal to or greater than the costs to society, excluding the benefits in mitigating climate change. That is, the measures are useful in any case because there is no risk of making wrong decisions involving additional costs to society regarding measures to reduce emissions. Typical examples are the reduction in energy costs and reduced emissions of local and regional pollutants. On the other hand, measures that consider the co-benefits are those that take into account other benefits besides the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. An example is the use of public transport to reduce GHG emissions, while reducing congestion, noise and local air pollution.

After conducting a literature review (online) of the lessons learned and best practices of relevant experiences, while respecting the diversity of the countries and their experiences, the stiudy will establish a methodology for an evaluation criteria in order to prioritize actions. In addition this methodology will include a description of the potential synergies between adaptation and mitigation measures and the key elements for decision-making. Based on this methodology the inventory will develop a reference tool to facilitate country-level prioritization of the measures.

In order to gather information a questionnaire will used to conduct a survey with experts from the region on climate action plans with a focus on appropriate measures of no-regrets and/or with co-benefits that have been implemented, both adaptation and mitigation to climate change in Latin America. A validation consultation will be carried out with a focus group to confirm the prioritization tool.

During the preparation of the review other EUROCLIMA partners will be involved, including ECLAC, but also the JRC , IICA, and UNEP. Furthermore, Focal Points will be also involved as they will be the key users of the study and therefore their input is essential to ensure that the measures are applicable to the needs of the countries, and that the reference tool will facilitate prioritization at the country level of such measures.