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Nazrin Abdul

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National Adaptation Plans are more necessary than ever, Azernews reports that this was stated by Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change, at the high-level event on NAPs.

In a powerful speech at COP29, Simon Stiell underscored the critical importance of National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) as essential tools for building climate resilience.

He emphasized that these plans are no longer optional but necessary for protecting lives and economies from the devastating impacts of climate change.

He noted that this year’s climate events, including severe droughts, floods, and wildfires, have shown that every bit of planning and preparation is vital. "Every policy, every plan, is the difference between life and death for millions of people around the world," Stiell said, stressing the urgency of preparing for the worst-case scenarios.

Stiell acknowledged that while many nations are eager to act, the resources required to implement NAPs are often out of reach. Vulnerable nations, particularly in Africa and the Pacific, struggle with limited funding and capacity to develop and execute effective adaptation strategies. "People and communities want to act, but they do not have the means," he said, highlighting the interconnected nature of global economies and the collective price paid by all nations when vulnerable countries cannot adapt.

Addressing this challenge, Stiell called for increased support from the international community to ensure that adaptation plans are properly funded and executed. He also urged global leaders to build on existing knowledge and experience, particularly from local communities who are often best equipped to understand their own vulnerabilities and needs.

In his closing remarks, Stiell issued a strong call for all nations to submit their National Adaptation Plans by 2025, describing this as "not just a timeline, but a lifeline" for vulnerable communities. "This is within reach. We have the tools, the science, the ability to achieve these outcomes," he said, urging governments to act with urgency in order to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.