Himalayan climate change adaptation programme upper Salween-Mekong basin
Background
The Salween-Mekong basin is one of China’s most climatically, ecologically, and ethnically diverse regions and the headwaters of many of China’s major river systems. The impacts of changes in water supply and climate vary greatly depending on elevation, environmental conditions, and the socioeconomic situation of rural inhabitants. Floods and droughts are severe at low elevations, water is limited at mid elevations, and flash flood and landslide risks are prominent at high elevations. Studies have shown the climate change impacts are high in the mountain areas but the vulnerabilities and risks are increased in downstream areas, especially for women. In addition, over the past half century, rural farmers in this region have faced uncertainties in the transformation from a centrally planned and collectively managed agrarian to a market-driven economy. At the same time they have faced climatic uncertainties and changes. Therefore, adaptation and improved natural resources management are necessary for enhanced ecosystem services, food security, and reducing vulnerabilities in the downstream communities, especially for women.
Objectives
The workshop will formulate the four-year project document for climate change adaptation in Yunnan Province of the Salween-Mekong basin, and prepare a detailed plan for the first year that benefits from the vision of the partners.
The workshop’s specific objectives are to:
- Identify the project niche and priorities and reach a common vision on the project orientation/conceptual framework
- Clarify the different project components and ensure their convergence
- Identify the operational steps for four years and a detailed work plan for the first year
- Identify strategic and operational partners and clarify their roles and responsibilities