Proyecto CityAdapt Xalapa, PNUMA
The Pitch
CityAdapt improved Xalapa’s climate resilience and created green jobs by utilizing nature-based solutions (NBS) and ecosystem-based adaptation techniques.
The Problem
Climate change puts cities at high risk of disaster from extreme weather if they are unequipped to handle the impacts. Xalapa lacked the systems needed to build resilience to both drought and heavy rainfall.
The Process
- Implemented NBS like artificial wetlands, infiltration gardens and restoration of urban rivers and natural spaces to reduce flooding and improve groundwater infiltration
- Introduced a rainwater harvesting system in schools to combat water scarcity
- Created agroforestry and silvopastoral systems in peri-urban areas
- Established signage at each project site to explain the functions and benefits of the project
- Monitored projects through a technical project committee made up of interdisciplinary actors from each level of government, academia, civil society organizations and residents
- Sought local knowledge and local participation in vulnerability assessments to evaluate where projects would be most beneficial
- Offered capacity-building programs and temporary employment opportunities
- Provided residents with the materials and skills needed to cultivate edible mushrooms
- Gave forest owners solar equipment to manage small livestock herds
The Impact
- Increased species diversity, prevented erosion and promoted groundwater infiltration
- Delivered $28 million in carbon storage value and $1.2 million in pollution reduction
- Increased residents’ engagement in climate adaptation via capacity-building workshops, educational signage and creation of sustainable livelihood opportunities
- Showed communities the direct benefits of NBS and environmental sustainability
- Inspired other cities throughout Latin America to install similar climate change adaptation measures
