Abstract
The objective of this study is to evaluate the contributions of ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) practices to the water–energy–food (WEF) nexus balance, design practical pathways, and analyze barriers towards achievement of EbA-WEF balance. An area case study and descriptive methods were used to analyze data collected from 50 community forests (CFs) spread across three regions in The Gambia. Extensive information from relevant literature sources was also referred to in this study. Fourteen priority EbA practices were established and categorized into four major groups based on their application similarities. Among the anticipated ecosystem services were enhanced water resource conservation, food and feed production, enhanced energy supply, and improved community livelihoods to enhance their resilience. Pathways on how each practice under the broad category contributes to water, energy, and food were developed to demonstrate how they individually and collectively contribute towards the nexus balance. Key enablers identified included a conducive policy framework, institutional support, diverse incentives, information, knowledge, and technology transfer, and climate and non-climate barriers were cited as impediments. The paper concludes by outlining recommendations to overcome the established barriers.
Highlights
Duguma et al [4] presented evidence that ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) is a system-wide process that considers the interplay between people, policies, institutions, and broader ecosystems with the potential to promote landscape restoration and livelihoods if well harnessed
This study aims to contribute to this growing discipline by establishing the paths through which the preferred EbA practices in The Gambia could contribute to the nexus balance and support livelihoods through income generation
These results were further clustered into four major categories based on their similarities in implementation, associated ecosystem goods and services, and livelihood support benefits
Summary
Ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) is among the fastest-growing adaptation concepts around the world [1], based on its cost-effectiveness, multiple benefits, and a wide range of applications in different landscapes [2]. The EbA approach entails incorporating biodiversity and ecosystem services into the broader adaptation strategy [3]. Duguma et al [4] presented evidence that EbA is a system-wide process that considers the interplay between people, policies, institutions, and broader ecosystems with the potential to promote landscape restoration and livelihoods if well harnessed. It has the immense potential to contribute to the developmental and environmental goals at local, national, and global levels, as noted by [5,6].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
