Co-Benefits

Many countries in the Global South face complex and interlinked challenges related to the impact of climate change, energy supply, food insecurity, poverty, and biodiversity loss - all exacerbated by multiple crises. To enhance public acceptance of climate action and ensure the most efficient use of limited resources, governments are increasingly adopting integrated approaches that align mitigation and adaptation efforts with broader development priorities under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this context, co-benefits play a critical role by highlighting the positive spillover effects that targeted climate actions can generate across multiple sectors. This is particularly relevant for low-income countries seeking to meet their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) while advancing sustainable development.

Our work supports partners in leveraging co-benefits by integrating mitigation and adaptation strategies, particularly in rural areas. This approach helps fulfil climate commitments while simultaneously reducing poverty and hunger, fostering resilient communities and infrastructure, promoting decent work opportunities, and the conservation of biodiversity in all its forms. Furthermore, inclusive and participatory methods enhance gender equality, peace, and good governance, strengthening the social foundation for sustainable transformation.

A core pillar of our approach is linking biodiversity conservation with climate action. Initiatives such as REDD+ not only reduce emissions but also preserve critical forest ecosystems, mitigate land-use conflicts, and improve local livelihoods. Likewise, Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) harness natural processes to enhance resilience, sequester carbon, and protect wildlife, demonstrating how integrated solutions can deliver lasting environmental and socio-economic benefits.