Binh Dinh: Launches smart coastal communities project to adapt to climate change
The People’s Committee of Binh Dinh Province has recently approved the technical support project titled “Smart Coastal Communities Adapted to Climate Change in Vietnam - Binh Dinh Province.”
Photo credit: Minh Thu
Funded by the Government of Canada through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the project aims to enhance the resilience of coastal communities to climate change while promoting biodiversity in marine and coastal ecosystems.
This six-year initiative, running until March 2030, will be implemented by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Binh Dinh, with a budget of over 37 billion VND. The project will target select communes and wards in Tuy Phuoc, Phu My, and Phu Cat districts, as well as Hoai Nhon town and Quy Nhon city, focusing on vulnerable coastal communities, particularly women, who are disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change.
Key objectives of the project
The Smart Coastal Communities project sets out ambitious goals to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change in Binh Dinh. Its primary objectives include:
- Improving access to climate information
The project will work to ensure equitable access to climate and disaster-related information services for vulnerable coastal communities. Particular emphasis will be placed on reaching women, women-led organizations, and local governments to improve their ability to respond to climate risks. - Strengthening community participation in resource management
Nature-dependent communities, especially women and women-led organizations, will be empowered to participate in the planning and management of marine and coastal resources. This effort will focus on inclusive risk management strategies that promote sustainability. - Enhancing financial access for climate solutions
Women and women-led organizations will be supported in accessing financial resources to implement nature-based climate solutions. These initiatives will foster co-management practices and business development that align with climate resilience goals. - Promoting nature-based climate solutions
The project will enhance the capacity of coastal communities to adopt nature-based solutions in the management and sustainable use of marine and coastal resources. This will be done with a focus on inclusiveness, ensuring all community members can benefit. - Establishing mangrove and coral reef reserves
Mangrove forests and coral reef reserves will be established and effectively managed to conserve biodiversity. These areas will help communities adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change while providing direct benefits to nature-dependent communities, particularly women. - Expanding mangrove forest coverage
The project will also work to increase the area and improve the quality of mangrove forests, enhancing their ability to provide ecosystem services. These forests will serve as vital resources for both climate mitigation and adaptation while supporting the livelihoods of local communities.
A model for sustainable development
This project is a crucial step forward for Binh Dinh’s coastal regions, where the impacts of climate change are already being felt. By focusing on the most vulnerable populations, particularly women, and integrating nature-based solutions, the Smart Coastal Communities project not only aims to improve climate resilience but also to promote sustainable livelihoods and biodiversity conservation.
As it progresses, the project has the potential to serve as a model for other provinces in Vietnam and beyond, showing how vulnerable coastal communities can adapt to the growing challenges of climate change while protecting their natural environment
VFM
