Dear Friends of EbA Community,
Welcome to the inaugural edition of our FEBA Quarterly Newsletter, where we delve into the significant strides being made in the realm of EbA — a critical approach in the fight against climate change and biodiversity loss. As we reflect on recent global developments, it’s clear that the integration of EbA within international policy frameworks is more vital than ever.
The three Rio Conventions Conferences of the Parties (COPs) have played a crucial role in advancing Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) outcomes. These conventions—UNFCCC, CBD, and UNCCD—have underscored the importance of integrating biodiversity and ecosystem services into climate resilience strategies. The CBD COPs have particularly emphasized EbA as a tool for biodiversity conservation, enhancing ecosystem resilience and contributing to climate adaptation goals. The UNFCCC COPs have supported the development of national adaptation plans incorporating EbA, while the UNCCD COPs have highlighted the role of EbA in combating desertification and land degradation, linking it to sustainable land management practices. These collective efforts have reinforced the recognition of EbA as a critical approach in achieving sustainable development and climate resilience.
Moreover, FEBA continues to play a crucial role in supporting these global efforts. FEBA, a collaborative network of over 100 organizations, promotes and facilitates knowledge exchange and capacity building. Our initiatives aim to enhance the implementation of EbA measures across diverse ecosystems and communities and inform multi-scale adaptation policy processes . By fostering collaboration among stakeholders, FEBA is helping to ensure that EbA is integrated into national and local adaptation strategies, thereby supporting the global adaptation and sustainable development agenda.
Emerging trends in EbA reflect a growing recognition of the need for innovative approaches. According to recent findings from IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report (AR6), ecosystem-based approaches are increasingly being recognized for their dual benefits of enhancing biodiversity while simultaneously providing climate adaptation benefits. This is particularly evident in regions vulnerable to climate impacts, where EbA measures are helping to protect livelihoods and build resilience.
As we continue to harness the power of ecosystems in adapting to climate change, it’s imperative that we remain committed to these collaborative efforts. Through shared knowledge and innovative practices, we can drive progress towards sustainable development goals and secure a resilient future for our planet.
We invite you to explore the latest insights and developments from across the FEBA Network in this edition, as we collectively strive to enhance our understanding and implementation of Ecosystem-based Adaptation.
