The Ecuadorian government, through the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MAE), is taking new steps to address climate change in the Coca River basin. In collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and as part of the Climate Promise initiative, a multisectoral technical visit was carried out in this vulnerable region.
This activity was part of the National Adaptation Plan for Climate Change, specifically within the process of developing Sectoral Action Routes. These tools are designed to bring adaptation efforts directly to local areas and apply them in key sectors such as health, human settlements, transportation, energy, natural heritage, and risk management.
The Coca basin has been identified as a priority due to its exposure to threats like landslides, regressive erosion, urban flooding, and emerging epidemiological risks. The area contains fragile ecosystems that supply water to Amazonian communities and support critical infrastructure such as the Coca Codo Sinclair hydroelectric plant.
Climate change is increasing river erosion and causing more extreme weather patterns. The Ministry of Environment and Energy is focusing on prevention and adaptation measures for strategic sectors by integrating climate considerations into infrastructure planning and maintenance. According to officials, events that were once rare are now happening more often. Sectoral Action Groups are working together so that projects, regions, and communities can better prepare for future climate challenges.
“The Amazon is one of the most sensitive regions to climate change and at the same time one of the most strategic for the country. This tour allows us to confirm what studies already show: we need to strengthen planning, prevention, and joint action between sectors and levels of government. With technical support from UNDP and commitment from local actors, we are taking concrete steps to implement the National Adaptation Plan,” said Tomás Villota, representative of the Ministry of Environment and Energy.
More than 50 delegates from national and local institutions took part in three days of activities in El Chaco and Francisco de Orellana. Technical teams visited erosion zones, landslide sites, sensitive biodiversity areas, as well as electric power, roadways, and oil infrastructure at risk. They also inspected health facilities while conducting epidemiological surveillance using ovitraps for vector monitoring. Evaluations were performed on ecosystems and protected areas with park rangers from Cayambe-Coca and Sumaco.
The event concluded with a workshop titled “Governance, territorial issues, and operationalization of the National Adaptation Plan” in Francisco de Orellana. Participants identified threats; prioritized adaptation measures for Project APA II; created participatory maps; and formed Territorial Sectoral Groups that will lead implementation efforts in the Amazon region.
The MAE stated that adapting the National Adaptation Plan at a local level is essential for building resilience by combining science with local experience and state action. With Sectoral Action Routes underway, Ecuador aims for effective climate adaptation focused on regional needs.
