Enhancing Climate Resilience of Coastal Communities Sector Project

proposed

To support GOF implement climate adaptation measures to reduce the impact of increasing coastal erosion due to climate change-induced sea-level rise and intensified extreme wave events, the FIJ: Enhancing Climate Resilience of Coastal Communities Project (the project) aims to provide enhanced climate-resilient protection to selected vulnerable coastal communities in Fiji. The project will implement a hybrid and climate-resilient approach to coastal protection by combining engineering solutions with nature-based approaches to create a sustainable coastal defense system. This will be achieved by (i) designing and constructing hybrid rock revetment structures in four villages that effectively dissipate wave energy, restore eroded coastal land and prevent further coastal erosion; (ii) restoring and conserving mangrove forests along the coastal areas to serve as natural buffers and barriers against waves and storm surges; (iii) planting vetiver grass on the revetment crest; (iv) enhancing the biodiversity of coastal ecosystems and supporting the livelihoods of local communities, in particular women and vulnerable groups, through sustainable practices; and (v) increasing awareness and capacity building among stakeholders on the importance of integrated coastal management and conservation strategies.Through a strong community participatory approach, the success and sustainability of the eco-based revetment structures will be strengthened by avoiding harm to communities, in particular women and girls, during construction. Equitable provision of social and economic benefits will be pursued through (i) reduced risk from coastal hazards, and (ii) improved livelihood opportunities. Traditional knowledge, gender-responsive measures, and community governance structures will be embedded in project activities. The community, and notably women and other vulnerable groups, will be engaged in revetment construction, vetiver grass planting, mangrove restoration initiatives, and livelihood generation activities.