The ClimaMed project, Acting for Climate in the Southern Mediterranean, in collaboration with the Association of Palestinian Local Authorities (APLA), concluded a three-day specialized training workshop on the development of Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans (SEACAPs). The workshop featured the participation of APLA’s Task Force on Energy and Climate Plans, which was established with representatives from the municipalities of Hebron, Beitunia, Al-Eizariya, and Salfit, along with members of APLA’s executive team.

This training is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the capacities of Palestinian local authorities in developing and implementing sustainable environmental and climate action plans by providing direct technical support and expanding knowledge exchange. By equipping participants with the necessary tools and expertise to align their plans with international standards, the workshop aimed to promote the adoption of sustainable policies and practices to address urgent environmental and climate challenges at the local level.

Led by Clima-Med experts, the sessions utilized key resources developed by the project, including the SEACAP Preparation Manual—a step-by-step guide for developping action plans—and the Climate Finance Guidebook, which supports LGUs in funding and implementing climate plans and initiatives. Participants delved into critical topics such as emissions assessment, renewable energy solutions, risk and vulnerability assessments, mitigation and adaptation actions, and strategies for financing SEACAP implementation. The training also emphasized raising awareness and promoting climate policies at the local level.

This training is part of the ongoing collaboration between APLA and ClimaMed, aligning with efforts to integrate the program into APLA’s strategies and future plans. The goal is to enhance the capacity of LGUs in adopting effective and well-defined climate and energy action plans, expand technical support, and empower municipalities to effectively respond to environmental and climate challenges.

In this context, a set of practical steps was identified to build on the outcomes of the training, including:

• Establishment of the SEACAP Support Mechanism (SSM): A technical framework within APLA, supported by members of National Coordination Groups (NCGs), to facilitate the development and implementation of SEACAPs.
• APLA’s Task Force on Energy and Climate Plans: This team will be responsible for leading SSM activities and providing effective support to participating cities.
• Membership in the Covenant of Mayors for the Mediterranean (CoM Med): Agreement was reached on steps to enroll APLA members in this regional initiative, fostering greater collaboration and resource sharing.