Safeguarding Mountain Social-Ecological Systems - Chapter 18: Promoting ecosystem-based adaptation and supporting local communities in mountain regions

Mountain ecosystems are some of the most vulnerable to climate change, which threatens human livelihoods, in particular local communities, as well as the high levels of biodiversity and wildlife in these areas. The United Nations Environment Programme has led several activities for ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) and climate-smart wildlife conservation in countries and communities with fragile mountain ecosystems. This chapter presents two in-depth cases of successful implementation of mountain climate change adaptation strategies. Lessons learnt highlight the importance of inclusive approaches, incorporation of indigenous and traditional culture and knowledge, innovation as well as working with local communities to provide benefits both for ecosystem and wildlife conservation, and climate-resilient livelihoods.