16.2 Ecosystem-based adaptation strategies

Ecosystem-based adaptation uses nature to help people cope with climate change. It harnesses the power of biodiversity and ecosystems like mangroves and forests to build resilience. This approach focuses on managing and restoring ecosystems to provide long-term benefits.

EbA differs from traditional engineering solutions by working with nature instead of against it. It's more flexible and provides multiple benefits beyond adaptation, like carbon storage and improved water quality. However, EbA faces challenges in implementation and funding.

Ecosystem-Based Adaptation Strategies

Principles of ecosystem-based adaptation

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• Utilizes biodiversity and ecosystem services helps people adapt to climate change impacts by harnessing the natural resilience of ecosystems (mangroves, wetlands, forests)
• Focuses on sustainable management, conservation, and restoration of ecosystems ensures long-term provision of ecosystem services and climate resilience
• Integrates local and traditional knowledge with scientific understanding ensures EbA strategies are culturally appropriate and locally relevant (indigenous land management practices)

EbA vs engineering-based approaches

• Traditional engineering-based adaptation relies on built infrastructure and technological solutions
  • Sea walls, levees, and irrigation systems address specific climate risks but can be costly and have unintended environmental consequences (habitat loss, altered sediment transport)
• EbA approaches leverage natural processes and ecosystem services
  • Coastal wetland restoration, agroforestry, and green roofs provide multiple benefits beyond adaptation (carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, improved water quality)
  • More flexible and adaptable to changing conditions compared to fixed infrastructure
  • Require ongoing management and maintenance to ensure long-term effectiveness (invasive species control, monitoring)

Effectiveness of EbA strategies

• Coastal ecosystems
  • Mangrove restoration and conservation buffers against storm surges and sea-level rise, provides habitat for fisheries and biodiversity (nursery grounds for commercially important species)
  • Coral reef protection dissipates wave energy, reduces coastal erosion, and supports tourism and marine biodiversity (reef fish, sea turtles)
• Terrestrial ecosystems
  • Agroforestry and silvopastoral systems enhance soil fertility, water retention, diversify income sources, and improve food security (shade-grown coffee, alley cropping)
  • Urban green infrastructure reduces urban heat island effect, stormwater runoff, improves air quality, and provides recreational benefits (green roofs, urban parks)

Challenges in EbA implementation

• Limited awareness and understanding of EbA among decision-makers hinders widespread adoption and integration into policies and plans
• Difficulty in quantifying and valuing ecosystem services makes it challenging to justify investments in EbA compared to traditional approaches
• Lack of long-term funding and institutional support threatens the sustainability and scalability of EbA initiatives
• Potential trade-offs between adaptation and other land-use priorities (agriculture, urban development) require careful planning and stakeholder engagement
• Growing recognition of the importance of nature-based solutions presents opportunities for mainstreaming EbA into climate adaptation and sustainable development agendas
• Potential for synergies with other sustainable development goals (poverty alleviation, biodiversity conservation) can leverage co-benefits and funding opportunities
• Increasing availability of tools and guidance for EbA implementation (ecosystem service valuation, vulnerability assessments) supports evidence-based decision-making
• Opportunities for community engagement and empowerment through participatory planning and implementation of EbA strategies (community-based mangrove restoration, agroforestry cooperatives)