Building a sustainable future for coastal communities in the face of climate change

Implemented from 2017 to 2024, the $42 million initiative funded by the Green Climate Fund with co-funds from Vietnam has achieved positive impacts in enhancing the resilience of coastal communities to the growing challenges of climate change.

The project has been implemented in Nam Dinh, Thanh Hoa, Quang Binh, Thua Thien-Hue, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, and Ca Mau provinces.

The main objective was to protect and support vulnerable communities through integrated solutions such as building safe houses, restoring mangrove forests, and strengthening disaster risk information systems.

The scheme achieved results beyond expectations. With 4,966 safe houses built, it provided solid housing for more than 25,000 people in areas frequently affected by storms and floods. These houses have helped protect people’s lives and property, and become models integrated into the National Target Programme for Sustainable Poverty Reduction.

The initiative has provided solid housing for more than 25,000 people in areas frequently impacted by storms and floods. Photo: UNDP in Vietnam

In addition, the project has regenerated 4,028 hectares of mangrove forests, acting as natural shields to protect communities from high tides and storms, while absorbing more than 1.1 million tonnes of CO₂, contributing positively to Vietnam’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

In addition, the initiative also supported the development of sustainable livelihood models such as beekeeping in Thanh Hoa province, helping people increase their income while encouraging the protection of mangrove forests.

In disaster risk management, the initiative has established an early warning system in 24 high-risk communes, and organised training for more than 62,000 officials and people, of whom nearly half are women. These programmes have contributed to improving the capacity and awareness of the community in responding to natural disasters, helping to minimise damage in emergencies.

At the workshop, the participants listened to real stories from beneficiaries. Vu Tan Suu, a resident of Da Loc commune in Thanh Hoa province, shared that thanks to the beekeeping model supported by the scheme, his family has a more stable livelihood and understands the importance of protecting mangrove forests.

Similarly, Hoang Thi Thoan, 75 years old, from Phong Dien district in Thua Thien-Hue province, said that the storm-resistant house supported by the undertaking has helped her feel more secure during the stormy season, bringing stability and hope.

Nguyen Van Tien, deputy director of the Department of Dyke Management and Natural Disaster Prevention and Control, and project director, emphasised, “This initiative is a clear demonstration of the close coordination between the parties, overcoming many difficulties to achieve encouraging results. However, the challenge is how to build resilience in other vulnerable areas across Vietnam. We hope that the UNDP and international organisations will continue to work together to replicate this initiative nationwide, bringing safety and sustainability to the Vietnamese people in the face of increasingly severe natural disasters.”

Ramla Khalidi, UNDP resident representative in Vietnam, said, “As we conclude this project, we are reminded of the escalating frequency and intensity of climate impacts faced by Vietnam’s coastal communities. These vulnerable populations are on the frontlines of the climate crisis. Through initiatives like this, we have demonstrated that resilience is not just possible – it is achievable through collaboration, innovation, and unwavering commitment. The UNDP is committed to continuing to work alongside Vietnam in building resilient communities and ensuring that no one is left behind in the face of climate change.”

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