Madkai in Goa selected for climate change project
Madkai village of Ponda taluka has been selected for a Biodiversity and Ecosystem-Based Climate Change Adaptation project by the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH) India, in partnership with the Nippon Life India Asset Management Limited.
The project focuses on climate change adaptation by restoring and preserving mangroves and improving coastal community resilience, using an ecosystem-based and community-centered approach.
The project includes capacity building and awareness activities for the local community on integrated disaster risk reduction as well as build emergency preparedness, an important component for sustainable change.
The initiative is in line with the Central government’s Prime Minister’s 10-Point Agenda and supports the National Action Plan on Climate Change (2008), State Action Plans and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change’s macro-action plan on biodiversity.
The project introduces community-led initiatives to plant about 2,25,000 mangroves along identified coastal villages around Ponda.
These nature-based solutions are meant to mitigate climate change concerns such as cyclones, storm surges, coastal erosion, sea-level rise and heat waves. They will also support long-term impacts by offsetting greenhouse gas emissions and acting as carbon sinks.
Talking about the partnership, Prerana Langa, Chief Executive Officer of the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat India, said, “We are extremely pleased to observe the continued advancement of the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat’s mission to strengthen the resilience of coastal climate ecosystems. It transcends environmental necessity, symbolising our steadfast dedication to fortifying coastal resilience. Our collaboration with Nippon Life India Asset Management Limited underscores our commitment to innovation and sustainability.”
She added, “By integrating nature-based solutions into our strategies, we are supporting climate change adaption, promoting biodiversity, and ensuring the long-term health of our environment.”
Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH) works to create habitats that allow communities to be resilient to disasters, adapt to climate change and thrive. Through leveraging technical expertise in climate action, risk reduction and habitat improvement, it impacts urban and coastal resilience, nature-based solutions, water security management and school resilience.
It also collaborates with institutions and organisations that share a commitment to promote a culture of preparedness, safeguard key infrastructure, ensure access to basic services, and build safe and green housing.