Harnessing nationally determined contributions to tackle loss and damage in Least Developed Countries

This paper analyses how least developed countries (LDC) are currently reporting loss and damage in their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) and National Adaptation Plans, identifies gaps or issues in coverage, and suggests a framework for addressing these gaps. LDCs are facing increasingly devastating impacts of climate change that are leading to loss and damage. As LDCs revise their climate action plans, known as NDCs, they should provide concrete evidence about loss and damage. This can help LDCs make the case for additional climate finance, technology and capacity-building support needed by them to tackle loss and damage.

This paper's review shows that updated NDCs increasingly included elements for addressing loss and damage (L&D). But they also shy away from defining L&D. Instead, they present the range of vulnerabilities and impacts associated with L&D or elaborate on financing needs for managing it. The review also shows elaboration of adaptation actions. But L&D does not get the same level of priority in climate action plans. There is limited evidence and information in these documents to help LDCs build a stronger case for more support and finance to address L&D. The report details key recommendations for revision of NDCs before the next COP.