a man standing next to a body of water

Our Focus

Environment & Climate Change Resilience


Paving the Way to Resilience

UNDP supports the Government of Guinea-Bissau in enhancing local communities’ resilience and adaptability to the impacts of climate change, while advancing the interconnected Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With its rich biodiversity, including both coastal and terrestrial ecosystems, Guinea-Bissau holds significant, untapped natural resources. Currently, 26% of the national territory is designated as protected areas, playing a critical role in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration.
In partnership with national and international stakeholders, UNDP has developed a robust portfolio addressing environmental and climate-related challenges. This includes the promotion of renewable energy, biodiversity protection, and measures to enhance the resilience of vulnerable communities. Key financial contributors include the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
 

Climate Change Adaptation

Rising sea-level, diminishing rainfall and gradual rise in temperature are major climate change risks for Guinea-Bissau. Country’s large population in coastal zone is vulnerable to coastal erosion, coastal flooding, inland flooding and saltwater intrusion. This situation will also negatively impact the coastal forests, cashew orchards and fisheries. UNDP is helping Guinea-Bissau to mitigate climate risks in agriculture, fisheries and eco-tourism.

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water next to a tree

 

Strengthening Climate Resilience in Vulnerable Coastal Communities (Coastal Project)

Financed by GEF, this project provided infrastructure such as rural roads and bridges, enhancing livelihoods for over 20,000 people. Additionally, 3777 hectares of rice fields were rehabilitated, supporting vulnerable communities.
Promotion of Renewable Energy and Low-Carbon Bioenergy Technologies (Energy Mini-Grids Project): This initiative focuses on promoting sustainable business models for solar mini-grids and low-carbon bioenergy technologies. It includes policy development, capacity building, and pilot investments to demonstrate the viability of these sustainable energy solutions.

Climate Information and Early Warning Systems Project 

This project strengthens Guinea-Bissau’s capacity to monitor climate risks, integrate climate data into national development plans, and provide early warnings to mitigate climate shocks.

National Adaptation Planning (NAP) Process

Supported by GCF, this project strengthens institutional capacities to integrate climate change adaptation into national and local planning. A key outcome is the development of a National Adaptation Plan Framework, which outlines the country’s priority areas for climate resilience.
 

Through the Small Grants Program (SGP), we directly supported 15,147 beneficiaries, including 8,065 women, in 21 communities, focusing on biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and sustainable land management.
 

a group of people walking down a dirt road
UNDP Guinea Bissau/Pamela Ferreira