Just copy and paste

The report Just copy and paste has its starting point in successful climate adaptation projects in Sri Lanka. With climate finance these projects can be multiplied, to secure a sustainable development for people affected by climate change.

Sri Lanka is an island situated off the southern tip of India. Temperature-related extreme events have increased over most locations in the country. Annual average rainfall over Sri Lanka has been decreasing for the last 57 years at a rate of about 7 mm per year. Agricultural activities are already affected by climate change impacts on water resources.

Climate change in Sri Lanka is expected to lead to a rise in sea level, higher temperatures, more frequent and prolonged droughts, high-intensity rainfalls and increased thunder activity.

The impacts of climate change could include: inundations, flooding, storm damage, and coastal erosion affecting human settlements and wetlands; decreases in agricultural crop yields; pollution of waterways and wells, leading to increases in waterborne diseases; and increased soil erosion from heavy rainfall events. These anticipated changes represent a significant threat to the coastal areas, as well as to different sectors of the national economy and human health.

The case studies look at projects of climate change adaptation implemented in the fields of agriculture, water and infrastructure located in the areas vulnerable to climate change. The report shows how people have been affected – through their own narratives.

The case studies also assess how the implemented projects have benefited people and reduced vulnerability, and finally, they identify areas where replications are required.

Conclusions in this summary report include how the people in Sri Lanka are already feeling the impacts of climate change, and therefore the immediate need to adapt to the effects of climate change. The ideas, knowledge and capacity exist in the country but are not widespread. Most importantly, the money needed to move to implementation is missing.

The projects in this summary report came about because there was some funding available from sources other than proper climate finance. If funds in the form of new and additional climate finance are made available, instant replication of successful adaptation measures could take place, benefitting many more people in Sri Lanka.

Looking beyond the studied areas in Sri Lanka, it’s easy to see the similar situations and needs in other parts of the world.

As a side effect, the report clearly shows the interlinkages between general development assistance and supporting climate change affected people and countries. This means the work should be done in tandem, but additional funds need to be provided.