National Adaptation Plan and Vehicle Emissions Standards Initiatives Launched
The Minister of Climate Change and Energy, Honourable John Salong has called upon all government officials, private sector representatives, civil society organizations, and international partners to work together in implementing the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and the Vehicle Emissions Standards projects.
Both initiatives were launched in Port Vila by the Hon. Minister on Monday this week (September 2, 2024).
The Minister said these projects are a testament to Vanuatu’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), as well as dedication to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
The launch event on Monday this week proceeded with welcome remarks from Acting Director General of the Ministry of Climate Change Adaptation, Mr Abraham Nasak.
Mr Nasak said the projects symbolize the comprehensive approach to addressing climate change, focusing on both adaptation and mitigation.
The National Adaptation Plan (NAP) project, funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF), is designed to strengthen national and provincial capacity to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
By integrating adaptation strategies into the national planning processes, this project will enhance Vanuatu’s resilience and ensure the protection of local communities, livelihoods, and environment.
The Vehicle Emissions Standards project, funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFAT) and Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) under the Low Emission Climate Resilient Development (LECRD) programme, focuses on mitigating Vanuatu’s carbon footprint by reducing vehicle emissions.
This initiative will improve air quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to the overall health and well-being of the people in Vanuatu.
In his address, the Hon. Minister of Climate Change stated that Vanuatu’s collective efforts will not only protect the environment but also enhance the resilience of communities and ecosystems.
Minister Salong stated that the NAP project aims to build Vanuatu’s adaptive capacity across key sectors, ensuring that Vanuatu is better prepared to face the ongoing and future impacts of climate change.
“By developing Provincial Adaptation Plans (PAPs) and enhancing institutional frameworks, this project will significantly strengthen our resilience, enabling us to protect our communities, livelihoods, and natural resources from the adverse effects of climate change,” the Minister said.
The Minister continued that when entering the Phase 2 of the emissions project, the national focus shifts from policy development to practical implementation.
“This means turning our commitments into action by amending our legislation, establishing clear operational procedures, and most importantly, ensuring that our people are informed and engaged in this journey,” he said.
“We are not just regulating emissions or planning for adaptation; we are fostering a culture of sustainability that will benefit our economy, our environment, and our people.
“These projects are a testament to our commitment to the Paris Agreement and our Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), as well as our dedication to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
“I want to extend my deepest thanks to the Global Green Growth Institute, the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs, the Green Climate Fund, and all our partners who have supported us thus far.
“Your expertise and guidance have been invaluable, and I look forward to continuing this collaboration as we implement both the NAP and the emissions standards projects,” the Minister of Climate Change, who is also responsible for Energy, said as he acknowledged the bilateral support from international partners.