141 Case study – Ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction in Afghanistan Project approach The project used a bottom-up approach to development planning, firstly facilitating environmental sustainability and disaster risk reduction in seven local villages, and then promoting Eco-DRR through landscape-scale national planning processes. The sustainable use of natural resources and disaster risk reduction measures were promoted through the development of a Green and Resilient Development Planning template, and through influencing the Shah Foladi Protected Area Management Plan. Tree nurseries were established to provide natural infrastructure to mitigate flooding, as well as fruit for additional income, and a hydropower pump was developed as a sustainable irrigation method. Tree planting focussed on stabilising stream banks and reducing soil erosion in the upper valleys, to reduce flood risk to lower valley villages. Community resilience centres and disaster preparedness teams were established to provide shelter and aid in response to disasters. The project increased the capacity of national planners and actors in relation to Eco-DRR, through several workshops, trainings and partnerships focussed on strengthening collaboration, as well as through supporting national policy and planning processes that promote risk-informed sustainable development. Project outcomes The highlights of the interventions were as follows: A local database on ecosystem health and environmental hazards of Koh-e Baba was established. A Green and Resilient Development plan was developed and tested. 210 participants from communities, government and universities were involved in a ‘training of trainer’ programme, with trainers delivering nursery management training to 270 community members. Six community tree nurseries were established, with fruit trees projected to provide up to $6,000 (USD)/2000m²/year. 235,380 saplings of indigenous and resilient species planted across seven villages to reforest and regenerate degraded slopes. Three community resilience centres were established. Over 100 people trained on disaster preparedness and early warning, and several local first aid teams established. Two university partnerships were established to mainstream Eco-DRR into academic curricula. Increased government engagement in the post-2015 national and global policy consultations on Eco-DRR. Lessons learnt Work with existing administrative structures and planning processes: Supporting and strengthening current planning frameworks promoted greater ownership and sustainability. Mainstream in national policy: Promoting Eco-DRR as a key component of humanitarian and disaster management supported policy advocacy. However, changes in government staff resulted in long delays. Ensure project sustainability: Community engagement promoted local interest in continuing initiatives, whilst mainstreaming Eco-DRR into policy and education ensured awareness and capacity could be maintained. Consider gender norms: Despite efforts to involve women in field activities, 70% of participants were men due to cultural and religious norms. To address this, awareness training was promoted on the importance of women to natural resource management. Sustainability and legacy of project The project demonstrated the potential of Eco-DRR, and developed community and government capacity to facilitate further action. The Green and Resilient Development Planning approach provided a framework for future sustainable development, and environmental community centres and Standard Operating Procedures will ensure long-lasting community resilience to disasters. By mainstreaming Eco-DRR within national policies, there is now greater collaboration between entities, and more financial resources. The project has also helped to inform the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030), and is now being replicated in four other provinces. Additionally, a regional network of experts has been established, promoting further capacity building and strengthening Eco-DRR in the region. Further information:https://pedrr.org/casestudy/mountain-partners-afghanistan/ Diagram of the NbS interactions showing that ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction provides benefits for biodiversity, livelihoods and climate change adaptation. Return to Principles