Implementing JI/AIJ [joint implementation/activities implemented jointly] : a guide for establishing joint implementation programs

JI allows countries in which the costs of reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) are high to partially meet their commitment to reduce greenhouse gas levels by investing in GHG reductions projects in countries where program costs are lower. Such joint projects are possible because actions to abate GHGs have the same effect on the global atmospheric heat-trapping capacity regardless of the locus of the GHG sequestration. This guide, commissioned by USAID, is designed for countries interested in establishing national JI/AIJ programs. Written from the perspective of developing countries, it focuses primarily on building local JI/AIJ infrastructure. Section 1 summarizes the basic concepts of JI, its historical roots, and its objectives. Also discussed are the categories into which the 41 official JI projects currently underway worldwide fall, the various benefits of these projects to the host countries and to the investors, and future challenges. Section 2 reviews factors that should be assessed before initiating the institutional development process and outlines steps to be taken in developing a national JI program. Section 3 identifies some of the key functions of a national program, while Section 4 reviews the technical aspects unique to JI/AIJ investment projects, such as carbon offset measurement, and monitoring and verification. An extensive set of appendices includes a review of current national AIJ/JI programs. Particular emphasis is placed on Costa Rica, which has a well established JI program, and on Guatemala, which has been taking preliminary steps towards establishing a program. A list of national level JI/AIJ contacts is included. (Author abstract, modified)