Notification 2007-122

Dear Madam/Sir, The purpose of this Notification is to invite Parties to provide their views on the draft report of the Executive Secretary on the exploration of possibilities of developing a "Biodiversity Technology Initiative", taking into account the Climate Technology Initiative (CTI), which was prepared pursuant to the request of the Conference of the Parties in paragraph 15 of Decision VIII/12, on technology transfer and cooperation. In paragraph 4 of the same decision, the Conference of the Parties decided to establish an Ad Hoc Technical Expert Group on Technology Transfer and Scientific and Technological Cooperation with a view to, inter alia, propose strategies for practical implementation of the programme of work on technology transfer and scientific and technical cooperation. The draft report was brought to the attention of this AHTEG at its meeting in Geneva on 10-12 September 2007. In its draft strategy for practical implementation of the programme of work on technology transfer and scientific and technical cooperation, the AHTEG expressed the following: Committed Parties and organizations that act as champions of technology transfer can play an important role in promoting and supporting the effective implementation of Articles 16 to 19 and the programme of work on technology transfer and scientific and technological cooperation, especially if competitive mechanisms are put in place. For example, the Climate Technology Initiative (CTI), which was launched in 1995 by 23 OECD/International Energy Agency member countries and the European Commission to support the technology-related objectives of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, indicates the useful role of such an international network of champions for the effective implementation of provisions on technology transfer. The establishment of a similar "Biodiversity Technology Initiative" would be useful and welcome if effectively contributing to the implementation of the present strategy. Several open questions remain, including on the funding needs, the potential portfolio of activities, and other questions as identified in the draft report prepared by the Executive Secretary for consideration by the ninth meeting of the Conference of the Parties. Parties and relevant organizations could be invited to provide their views on these open questions, for inclusion into the report. Accordingly, Parties are invited to submit, at their earliest convenience but no later than 15 January 2008, their views on the attached draft report, particularly on: The funding needs of a Biodiversity Technology Initiative, as well as possible funding mechanisms and arrangements; The potential portfolio of activities; The identification of candidates that could act as a host institution, bearing in mind the indicative list of criteria provided in the draft report; The involvement and participation of developing countries and corresponding institutional arrangements; The relationship with the Convention; and Cooperative mechanisms with other organizations and initiatives. The views received will be included in the final report, which will be submitted to the Conference of the Parties at its ninth meeting. Please accept, Madam/Sir, the assurances of my highest consideration.

Executive Secretary

To: CBD National Focal Points