Developing a Methodology to Evaluate the Contribution of Nature to Climate Adaptation Benefits for Vulnerable Human Communities

Student Researcher

Krithika Layagala, Major: Biology, Minor: Computational and Applied Mathmatics and Statistics (CAMS)

Faculty Mentor

Dr. Robert Rose

About the Project

Climate change directly impacts 180 million people per year, with the majority of those already marginalized. Climate adaptation is therefore critical to improving the lives and livelihoods of the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. There is evidence that the protection, restoration, and improved management of natural and modified ecosystems can help people and nature adapt to climate change (actions referred to as Nature-based Solutions for climate adaptation), in addition, to providing climate mitigation and biodiversity benefits. However, the magnitude of nature's contribution to climate adaptation at the global level has not yet been assessed. The research project aims to develop a methodology to assess the role of nature in providing climate adaptation benefits to people using existing global datasets. This methodology is a much-needed tool to support the implementation of nature-based solutions that deliver climate justice and equity for those most in need and, combined with priority settings for climate mitigation and biodiversity conservation, also provide climate mitigation and biodiversity benefits.

The results of the research will inform international discussions around the Glasgow-Sharm el-Sheikh work program on the global goal for adaptation under the UNFCCC and will contribute to the implementation of Conservation International's climate adaptation strategy.

Project ID - Format

23-006-23 - CRP Year