Ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) is a strategy for adapting to climate change that harnesses nature-based solutions and ecosystem services. For instance, protecting coastal habitats like mangroves provides natural flood defences; reforestation can hold back desertification and recharge groundwater supplies in times of drought; and water bodies like rivers and lakes provide natural drainage to reduce flooding.
UNEP and GEF are currently supporting over 30 ecosystem-based adaptation projects. Combined, these projects are aiming to benefit around 2.2 million people around the world.
Often through win-win outcomes, ecosystem-based adaptation protects vulnerable communities from extreme weather while simultaneously providing a variety of ecological benefits so crucial for human well-being, such as clean water and food. Though primarily an adaptation approach, ecosystem-based adaptation can also contribute to climate change mitigation by reducing the emissions that transpire from habitat loss and ecosystem degradation.
Given this extensive and diverse portfolio of EbA projects, UNEP is well positioned to help build and solidify the evidence base needed to make a strong case for EbA upscaling and integration. With improved processes for monitoring and evaluating projects, UNEP collects and consolidates information from its EbA portfolio on effectiveness, good practices and lessons learned. UNEP uses its global reach, extensive networks and partnerships with governments, non-governmental organisations and the private sector to share this knowledge and build capacity to improve practice and shape policies and plans.
Albania: How a lagoon became a frontline defence against climate change
Climate change is causing Albania’s coastline to erode at an alarming speed. The government is now turning to a solution as old as the sea itself: Nature. The Kune-Vain Lagoon in Lezha district is a biodiversity hotspot, but it also protects people from climate change by acting as a natural buffer and defence against erosion and flooding. If the lagoon can be protected, both the local economy and the local wildlife can flourish. This approach of using nature to adapt to climate change is called ecosystem-based adaptation – in essence, look after nature and nature will look after you.
