Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA)

Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA) refers to the strategic use of biodiversity and ecosystem services to help communities adapt to the adverse effects of climate change. EbA integrates the sustainable management, conservation, and restoration of ecosystems to provide services that increase the resilience of people against climate impacts. This approach underscores the critical role of natural infrastructure, such as forests, wetlands, and coral reefs, in mitigating the effects of extreme weather events and other climate-related challenges.

Implementing EbA involves a comprehensive understanding of ecological processes and the socio-economic context to design adaptive strategies that are both environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive. By leveraging the inherent properties of ecosystems, EbA promotes a symbiotic relationship between human well-being and environmental health. Solutions often include activities like reforestation, wetland restoration, and the sustainable management of agricultural landscapes.

A key advantage of EbA is its potential for multifunctional benefits. In addition to enhancing climate resilience, EbA strategies contribute to biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration, water purification, and overall ecosystem health. This holistic approach aligns with the principles of sustainable development, ensuring that adaptation efforts are both effective and equitable.