BTR submissions in 2026 crucial for second Paris Agreement stocktake

The submission of Biennial Transparency Report (BTRs) in 2026 is particularly important as they will serve as one of the key sources of information for the second global stocktake of the Paris Agreement, David Higgins, Deputy Executive Director of COP31 and Chair of the COP31 negotiations, said during a panel session held as part of Baku Climate Action Week 2026 (BCAW 2026), according to Report.

He said the BTRs submitted in 2024 demonstrated countries' efforts to fulfill their commitments under the Paris Agreement and identified areas for further international cooperation.

"Each of the 137 reports submitted is the result of tremendous work and contains a wealth of valuable information on climate action, and each deserves recognition," Higgins said.

Higgins also stressed the importance of international support for countries facing difficulties in preparing their BTRs, highlighting the contributions of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO).

He added that COP31 plans to recognize countries that submit their BTRs in 2026.

Meanwhile, COP30 Executive Director and Brazil's National Secretary for Climate Change Ana Toni said BTRs are not only an international obligation but also an important tool for sharing experience and improving climate policies.

"The first cycle showed how successful this process was and how many countries were able to prepare their reports. But at the same time, it showed how much more we still have to do," Toni said.

She stressed the need to support countries that do not yet have the necessary databases and systems to prepare BTRs.

"It is not simply about the willingness to do it - it is about having the capacity. Therefore, supporting these countries is absolutely essential," she said.

According to Toni, reliable data is crucial for developing effective climate policies. She added that Brazil will submit its second BTR before COP31.