Environment and Energy

UNDP and Climate Change

In order to achieve the key Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) of reducing poverty, hunger and the proportion of population without access to safe drinking water by half in the next couple of decades, it is critical that adaptation to the effects of climate variability and change be incorporated within the broader context of poverty eradication and sustainable development.

UNDP is committed to supporting developing countries in responding to climate change concerns as part of their overall sustainable development efforts. UNDP works with developing countries to create integrated solutions to social, economic and environmental challenges, with a primary focus on improving the lives of those living in extreme poverty.

With its widespread country offices, UNDP has established a unique position as a long-term, trusted partner to developing countries and is well-placed to share its sustainable development expertise and provide assistance to national governments in addressing climate change in ways that are compatible with their own particular domestic development and poverty reduction agendas.

Given UNDP’s focus on poverty alleviation, and the disproportionate impacts of climate change on the poorest countries, it is most important for UNDP to work with developing countries on adopting climate change adaptation and mitigation measures that reduce the vulnerability of the poor and expand opportunities for sustainable livelihoods.

Download UNDP’s Climate Change brochure: Sustainable Development, Energy & the Environment: UNDP’s Climate Change Initiatives