Climate Change Adaptation Project

A Climate Change Trust Fund (CCTF) recipient‑executed grant that demonstrated climate‑adaptive planning and management using an integrated, multi‑sector approach in Addu (Seenu) and Gnaviyani atolls. The project combined: (i) wetlands conservation with protected area management systems, zoning, environmental education, eco‑tourism facilities, and support to eco‑friendly livelihoods in Hithadhoo (Addu) and Fuvahmulah (Gnaviyani); (ii) coral reef monitoring by developing protocols, training resort/dive centers, and building a national coral database and decision tools; (iii) solid waste management (SWM) planning at island level to reduce reef and wetland pollution; and (iv) mainstreaming climate adaptation in local development planning and capacity building for island/atoll councils and national agencies. Implementation highlighted practical lessons for small island states: the need to account for contractor capacity and materials logistics; the importance of longer time horizons to realize measurable adaptive capacity outcomes; and careful management of stakeholder expectations amid evolving regulations and institutional roles. Despite some delays and recalibration (notably in SWM and resort MoUs), the operation established foundations for protected wetlands, improved coral reef monitoring capacity, and trained local representatives, demonstrating an ecosystem‑based, community‑anchored adaptation model