​The UNFCCC Climate Action and Support Transparency Training (CASTT) Programme is a flagship initiative designed to build the capacity of national experts from developing countries in key areas related to climate action and transparency. Since its launch, CASTT has expanded to include three critical sub-programmes, each targeting specific audiences and focusing on key aspects of greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories, adaptation reporting, and the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF).

1. UNFCCC-GIR-CASTT Training Programme

Launched in partnership with the Greenhouse Gas Inventory & Research Center of Korea (GIR), the UNFCCC-GIR-CASTT Programme offers a three-week intensive course held annually in Seoul, Republic of Korea since 2017. This program equips national GHG inventory experts and technical professionals from developing countries with the necessary technical skills to develop high-quality GHG inventories. The training focuses on the Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) system and the ETF frameworks, ensuring participants are prepared to report on their national climate actions under the Paris Agreement. To date, 221 experts from 89 countries have successfully completed this training, significantly bolstering the capacity of developing nations in GHG reporting​.

Watch videos from the UNFCCC secretariat, GIR and programme alumni to gain a better understanding of the training.

2. Adaptation Academy

Launched in 2021, the Adaptation Academy supports developing countries in effectively reporting climate adaptation actions. It focuses on training early- and mid-career professionals involved in adaptation planning, policy development, and evaluation, with particular emphasis on aligning national communications, National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). With over 170 experts trained from 82 countries, the Academy has facilitated regional workshops, including recent sessions in South Africa (April 2024) and Bangkok (September 2024). By adopting a holistic approach, the Academy ensures participants acquire practical skills to enhance their countries' climate adaptation reports​.

3. ETF Blended Training ​

Initiated in 2021, the ETF Blended Training combines in-person and online sessions aimed at empowering policymakers, government officials, and experts responsible for climate mitigation and transparency. This program demystifies the complexities of the ETF, focusing on mitigation policies and sustainable development impacts. Over 240 experts from 89 countries have participated in this training, gaining hands-on experience in climate transparency and reporting under the Paris Agreement. By equipping national experts with the necessary skills, the ETF Blended Training enables developing countries to meet their reporting obligations effectively​.

Together, these sub-programmes under the CASTT initiative play a vital role in strengthening the technical and institutional capacities of developing nations, advancing global efforts to advance climate transparency and adaptation goals.

An event focusing on the UNFCCC-GASTT program will be held at COP29 on 19 November, 2024, from 9:00 to 10:45 AM. Please join the event and meet programme alumni, UNFCCC secretariat and CASTT partners, to gain insights into the programme and future training opportunities. For more details, an event page will be posted on the UNFCCC Transparency Calendar website closer to the date at https://unfccc.int/transparency-calendar.