The Nairobi Work Programme has facilitated adaptation to climate change.

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UN Climate Change News on April 11, 2023 - The UN Climate Change Secretariat has released a report demonstrating the effectiveness of a vital adaptation initiative under the UNFCCC in bolstering the resilience of governments, communities, and various stakeholders worldwide to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on the most vulnerable populations.

The report focuses on the accomplishments of the Nairobi Work Programme (NWP) over the past five years. With over 450 diverse organizations, the NWP functions as an inclusive network committed to bridging knowledge disparities and expanding climate adaptation efforts globally. Its initiatives encompass a wide array of topics, including ecosystem conservation and water resource management.

Youssef Nassef, Director of the Adaptation Division at UN Climate Change, emphasized, "The Nairobi Work Programme's role in convening stakeholders from various sectors and levels to consolidate knowledge and address adaptation challenges across different regions and shared ecosystems has become increasingly crucial."

‍Specific instances of the achievements brought forth by the NWP

The primary goal of the NWP is to ensure that no aspect of climate change adaptation is hindered by a lack of knowledge or information.

In many instances, such crucial knowledge remains scarce, insufficient, or inaccessible, particularly during the implementation of strategies for long-term transformation. This results in the absence of effective adaptation plans or their inadequate execution, slowing down adaptation efforts in the face of escalating climate change impacts.

The NWP has been instrumental in addressing these knowledge gaps at national, subregional, and regional levels. For instance, it has facilitated the formation of expert groups for regions sharing similar ecological and climatic characteristics or common ecosystems.

Noteworthy examples from the NWP's expert group on biodiversity and climate change include community-led watershed management initiatives in Myanmar's temperate forests and native seedling planting projects aimed at mitigating deforestation, forest degradation, and soil erosion impacts in Sudan.

Additionally, the NWP expert group on oceans published a comprehensive guide titled "Coastal Adaptation and Nature-based Solutions for the Implementation of National Adaptation Plans: Considerations for the Green Climate Fund Proposal Development." This publication sheds light on the interconnectedness of ocean and climate issues, especially for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

The guide highlights countries' intentions to enhance ocean ecosystem adaptation in their National Adaptation Plans, emphasizing investment in the blue economy, marine ecosystem protection, and initiatives such as coral reef and mangrove restoration. These measures play a crucial role in coastal protection, erosion prevention, and mitigating the impacts of severe weather events.

‍The increase in strategic partnerships is becoming more pronounced.

The NWP has successfully forged long-term strategic partnerships with global, regional, and subregional organizations and networks to enhance knowledge of shared ecosystems and develop strategies for climate change adaptation. These partnerships involve a diverse range of stakeholders, including Indigenous Peoples organizations, and aim to address transboundary climate impacts effectively.

For instance, in the Hindu Kush Himalayas, where communities face challenges such as flash floods and water scarcity, the NWP facilitates regional cooperation through initiatives like the Lima Adaptation Knowledge Initiative (LAKI). Under LAKI, experts collaborate on measures like ecosystem restoration and conservation corridors to address climate change impacts across political boundaries.

Pema Gyamtsho, Director General of ICIMOD, emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships like LAKI in driving climate-resilient action tailored to local contexts and led by affected communities.

Looking ahead, the NWP plans to further strengthen partnerships at regional and transboundary levels, particularly in areas like mountain ecosystems. By scaling up initiatives like LAKI and fostering collaboration on adaptation action, the NWP aims to contribute to achieving the Global Goal on Adaptation and addressing climate challenges in shared ecosystems. This effort aligns with discussions at the UN Climate Change Conference COP28 and sets the stage for continued progress at upcoming events like the UN Climate Change Conference SB60.

About the Nairobi Work Programme

The Nairobi Work Programme (NWP) was established during COP11 in Nairobi in 2005 to facilitate the generation and dissemination of information and knowledge to support adaptation policies and practices, particularly in developing countries. Over the years, the NWP has expanded its reach, involving countries and a diverse network of partner organizations, experts, and stakeholders from around the world. Its goal is to address knowledge gaps and enhance action in response to the adaptation needs identified by Parties to the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement.

Read more about the NWP here

Source: unfccc