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Protecting Kune-Vaini Lagoon Scaling up ecosystem-based adaptation in Albania’s oasis for migratory birds
The Kune-Vaini Lagoon System (KVLS) in northern Albania, a biodiversity hotspot for approximately 200 bird species, faced severe threats from climate-induced flooding and sea-level rise. Between 1997 and 2017, floods caused USD 218 million in damage across Albania, with a third of coastal areas expected to face regular flooding by 2030. In response, the Albanian government, through its National Adaptation Plan (NAP) launched in 2015, implemented a pilot EbA project from 2016 to 2020 funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implemented by UNEP. The project employed three primary strategies: rehabilitating 2,000 metres of coastal dunes using over 65,000 seedlings of marram grass and marina; planting over 14,500 climate-resilient tree seedlings to create a "green belt" buffer; and using a sand dredger to reopen the tidal channel inlet to restore seawater circulation. These interventions have led to increased populations of sea bass, eels, pelicans, and flamingos, while improving flood resilience and water quality. The project also addressed capacity gaps in national and local government regarding EbA concepts. Based on these results, the Ministry of Tourism and Environment intends to replicate these approaches in the Narta and Karavasta lagoons in southern Albania.
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Document type: Case study