Local Adaptation to Climate Change (LACC)

Introduction

The Local Adaptation to Climate Change (LACC) Project supports sustainable and inclusive livelihoods in Nepal’s Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces by helping communities’ adaptation to climate and environmental changes. Working in regions highly vulnerable to climate risks, poverty, and inequality, LACC applies an integrated approach that views ecosystems and human activities as interconnected, enabling holistic solutions to environmental, social, and economic challenges. By using ecosystem‑based adaptation – restoring, conserving, and sustainably managing ecosystems—LACC strengthens climate resilience through nature‑based solutions, while simultaneously promoting gender equality and non-discrimination development while considering the broader social, economic, and political context.

GTK’s role in the project, together with IWMI, is to advance locally led spring revival through an approach that combines practical, participatory methods with strong scientific understanding of how springs function in changing climatic and environmental conditions. This joint work supports the development of effective, evidence‑based interventions that secure and enhance spring flow, spring water quality and overall water security. The work is greatly building on local knowledge of springs and their behaviour. This ensures that suggested solutions are rooted in both community experience and robust hydrogeological knowledge and strengthens the capacity of local communities to cope with changing conditions.

Partners: International Water Management Institute (IWMI), Finnish Environment Institute (Syke)

The coordinator of the project: Cowater International

Funding authority: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland, EU, Nepal

Contact person: Anu Eskelinen

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