Comparing Mangrove Restoration in the Philippines with Restoration Efforts in Zambia
In the Philippines case study, restoring mangroves helps protect communities from flooding and storm surges caused by climate change. A similar situation in Zambia is our restoration efforts, which respond to deforestation caused by illegal tree logging and charcoal burning. Both situations show how environmental damage worsens climate impacts and how community-led solutions can restore ecosystems and protect livelihoods.
Natural hazards and climate change
In Zambia, the most common natural hazard is drought. Climate change has increased droughts and caused erratic rainfall, making farming difficult. Unlike the Philippines where climate impacts cause flooding, in Zambia they lead to droughts, drying of rivers, and power cuts because we depend on hydroelectricity.
Areas and communities most affected
The greatest impacts are on agriculture, health and livelihoods. Poor rainfall reduces crop yields and food security, increases water-borne diseases like diarrhea, and affects incomes. Smallholder farmers are most affected. Women and youth are especially vulnerable because they often miss out on farming inputs and must walk long distances to fetch water, reducing time for other activities.
Local coping methods and solutions
Communities are using agroforestry (intercropping crops with indigenous, nitrogen-fixing trees), composting, reforestation to restore forest cover, improve soils, and secure firewood and fodder. These solutions are community-led and use indigenous knowledge, similar to the mangrove restoration approach in the Philippines.
Support from institutions and partners
The Government of Zambia, through the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment and other ministries, supports climate action. Local NGOs work with communities on reforestation and climate-smart farming. External partners provide training, green skills, and support for green livelihoods and jobs.