IPDC panel supports deltas in times of climate change

At the UN Water Conference in New York, 22-24 March 2023, a new initiative to accelerate climate adaptation called the International Panel on Deltas and Coastal areas (IPDC) will be launched.

This new initiative by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water management will focus on solutions that increase water security, adaptive capacity and sustainability. 

The International Panel on Deltas and Coastal areas (IPDC) is an initiative with the aim to support deltas, coastal areas and islands in their strenuous efforts to cope and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

Deltas and coastal zones are often highly populated areas that play a significant role for the economy, food systems and biodiversity.

By sharing knowledge for local climate action, the IPDC wants to support and enhance the resilience of valuable ecosystems, livelihoods and economic assets, amidst other social challenges such as food security, loss of biodiversity and energy supply.

In its founding phase the initiative is supported by Deltares, the Global Center on Adaptation and the Delta Alliance.

To spur international coordination to enhance resilience, the Netherlands has set up the Champions Group for Deltas and Coastal areas.

The group kicks off at the COP 27 with a soft launch. Being one of the pillars of the IPDC, the group enables harmonised action between countries and Small Islands to realise sustainable management of deltas and coastal zones in the short and medium term.

The IPDC will provide area-specific advice to countries on the implementation of their National Adaptation Plans (NAPs).

An aspired outcome of these endeavors is a pipeline of sustainable projects for financial institutions, with a preference for nature-based solutions.