Seoul, Republic of Korea, August 2, 2024 – The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) has published an extensive global survey examining the country-specific gaps and needs in addressing climate-induced loss and damage (L&D). This technical report was funded from the European Union through the project “Support to developing countries’ alliances on climate change” and from UK International Development through the project “Supporting the LDC Group under the UNFCCC”. The survey involved 32 respondents from ministries and government agencies across 20 countries among GGGI’s Member States. The results provided insights into the readiness of member countries to plan and implement L&D activities. 

The report highlights critical areas requiring immediate attention to enhance L&D activities in vulnerable countries amid escalating climate change impacts. Key findings demonstrates that there are substantial gaps in (1) capacity and knowledge, (2) financial resources, (3) data availability, and (4) policy and institutional governance, all of which hinder the effective planning and implementation of L&D activities.  

To address these critical challenges, this report offers recommendations tailored to local contexts. First, adopting a multi-sectoral approach to capacity building will engage diverse stakeholders in planning and implementing L&D activities. Second, exploring innovative financing mechanisms, both domestically and internationally, will alleviate financial constraints. Third, prioritizing and supporting research to improve data collection, analysis and dissemination will address the data gap leading to L&D activities. Lastly, establishing clear policy directives and strengthening institutional capacities will help close the gap in policy and institutional governance.  

“The survey has highlighted the need for extensive efforts to fully operationalize L&D initiatives. While the establishment of the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage marks a significant step forward, there is still considerable groundwork to be laid, especially in robust systems, capacity and mechanisms. Our focus must now shift towards creating an operational framework that guarantees timely and effective implementation,” Dr. Shivenes Shammugam, Senior Economic Officer at GGGI, stated

The global survey findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and implementing partners on strategies to enhance readiness and resilience against climate impacts. GGGI plans to leverage the survey outcomes to support its Member States through readiness programs for L&D.