Five global thematic learning networks for the Second National Communications are currently under preparation:

1. GHG Inventories;
2. Adaptation;
3. Mitigation;
4. Mainstreaming;
5. Systematic Observation.

Each network will provide national climate change enabling activity project coordinators with a forum for discussing technical climate change issues related to these five thematic areas. By encouraging exchange between national experts, regional partners and international institutions, the networks will provide a means of sharing north-south and south-south experiences. Best practices documents will be developed on an periodic basis that feature lessons learned in the networks.

The learning networks will be hosted on the UNDP-GEF National Communications Support Program (NCSP) website ( www.undp.org/cc/index.htm ), and will be an important component of the NCSP's technical assistance package for non-Annex I Parties. The learning networks are expected to become operational in early 2004.