Reducing Risk and Vulnerability to Climate Change in the Region of La Depresion Momposina in Colombia

The project will focus on the municipalities of Ayapel, San Marcos, and San Benito Abad in the effort to minimize destruction from future flooding, which is expected to become more severe as the climate changes, and to protect the biological diversity of a region known for its rich variety of species and ecosystems. Colombia’s Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, and municipal and local officials, together with the United Nations Development Programme, are planning a wide range of activities to achieve this goal, including the development of hydrological and hydraulic models, climate change profiles, flood-risk maps, and vulnerability assessments, updating the hydrometeorological network, and designing and operating a local early warning system. The project will also involve the rehabilitation of wetlands, building dikes, unclogging streams to better manage water flows, the diversification of food sources, building homes and public infrastructure to float or to stand on stilts, and a programme directed toward women for making natural-fiber crafts using plant species that thrive in flood conditions. Finally, the project aims to promote replication of successful experiences in ecosystem- and community-based adaptation measures and integrate them into local and regional planning policies.