The government and UNDP have partnered to launch local adaptation initiatives across five agro-ecological zones

The Government of Bangladesh and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), have teamed up to implement locally-driven climate adaptation initiatives in five of the country’s most vulnerable agro-ecological zones (AEZs), enhancing Bangladesh’s climate resilience.

Ahead of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29), a signing ceremony for the project titled ‘Integrating Climate Change Adaptation into Sustainable Development Pathways of Bangladesh’ was held on 5 November at the Economic Relations Division’s conference room.

The agreement was signed by Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, and Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky, Secretary of the Economic Relations Division.

During the ceremony, Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky stated, "In Bangladesh, we face daily challenges from climate change, such as this year's flash floods and prolonged rainfall. While we’ve made significant strides in climate resilience, ongoing efforts are crucial to strengthening the capacities of local governments and stakeholders to sustain this progress. If we fail to act, the consequences could be dire."

Stefan Liller, in his remarks, emphasized, "Climate change challenges require localized solutions. Through our collaboration with the Government of Bangladesh, we are empowering communities and local governments to build climate resilience and advance the SDGs, ensuring that no one is left behind."