Margibi County-The Executive Director/CEO of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo has stressed that the National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) globally are critical frameworks established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to help countries like Liberia address the impacts of climate change.
By J.H. Webster Clayeh (0886729972)[email protected]
Addressing the gathering at the High-Level Dialogue on the Implementation of Liberia’s National Adaptation Plans (NAP) over the weekend at Farmington Hotel, Margibi County, the EPA Executive Director said given Liberia’s vulnerability to climate-related hazards such as flooding, drought, and rising sea levels, it is imperative that these plans are effectively implemented.
The high-level dialogue serves as a platform for stakeholders—including government officials, civil society, international partners, and local communities to discuss strategies for advancing these plans.
The Purpose of the High-Level Dialogue according to Dr. Yarkpawolo will foster collaboration among various stakeholders to enhance the implementation of Liberia’s NAPs.
This includes sharing best practices, identifying funding opportunities, and discussing challenges faced in executing adaptation strategies, EPA boss said.
“The dialogue aims to create a sense of urgency around climate action while ensuring that adaptation measures are inclusive and equitable,” Dr. Yarkpawolo said.
Still speaking, the EPA boss added: “It is essential to acknowledge the diverse range of stakeholders involved in this process. This includes government ministries responsible for environmental management, local governments that implement community-based adaptation initiatives, non-governmental organizations advocating for vulnerable populations, and international development partners providing technical and financial support. Their collective efforts are crucial for the successful realization of Liberia’s adaptation goals.”
Dr. Yarkpawolo said: “It is important to address key challenges that hinder effective implementation. These challenges include limited financial resources, inadequate technical capacity at local levels, lack of data for informed decision-making, and insufficient public awareness regarding climate change impacts. By openly discussing these challenges, collectively we can work towards developing actionable solutions.”
According to the EPA Executive Director, the high-level dialogue is centered on building a resilient future for Liberia where communities can adapt to changing climatic conditions while promoting sustainable development. Such a vision, he says, aligns with national priorities as well as global commitments under the Paris Agreement.
“As we embark on this important dialogue today, let us commit ourselves to taking concrete actions that will lead to tangible outcomes in implementing Liberia’s National Adaptation Plans- NAPs. It is vital that we leave this gathering not only with renewed energy but also with specific commitments from all stakeholders present as will be done today in our adoption of the Farmington High-level Declaration for Implementation of Liberia’s National Adaptation Plans,” EPA boss said.
