The Urban Ecosystem-based Adaptation: Training of Trainers (Urban EbA ToT) under the project "Urban EbA for Climate-Resilient Development in the Kathmandu Valley" was organized from 11–13 December 2024, in Kathmandu, Nepal. Funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) through UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and implemented by Kathmandu Valley Development Authority (KVDA) in technical collaboration with UN-Habitat Nepal, the project aimed to develop capacity with the proof of concept to mainstream Urban EbA approach in Kathmandu Valley.
The three-day event brought together 28 participants, including KVDA officials, representatives from 5 municipalities of the Kathmandu valley (Kathmandu and Lalitpur Metropolitan Cities, Tarakeshwor, Tokha and Budhanilkantha Municipalities), Ministry of Urban Development (MOUD), Department of Urban Development and Building Construction (DUDBC), High-Power Bagmati Civilization Integrated Development Committee, and UN-Habitat Nepal. The training was based on five modules developed by the UN-Habitat Regional Office for the Asia and the Pacific for trainers and facilitators, ensuring consistency with global EbA frameworks while tailoring the content to the local context. The ToT was led by Ms. Maria Adelaida Antonette M. Cea, Regional Coordinator, Climate Change and Urban Environment, Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (UN-Habitat- Japan), and emphasized on collaboration, technical capacity building, and actionable strategies for mainstreaming sustainable, climate-responsive solutions in Kathmandu Valley. The technical sessions were also delivered by individuals from the MoUD, KVDA and the District Commissioner Office.
The workshop was a dynamic and interactive process, divided into several modules to ensure a comprehensive understanding of Urban EbA (Ecosystem-based Adaptation). Day 1 introduced the concept of Urban EbA, its role in addressing climate risks, and enhancing urban sustainability, along with basic principles of a ToT. Day 2 covered Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA) tools and frameworks, with a focus on stakeholder engagement for effective adaptation strategies. Day 3 featured decision-making tools, funding strategies, together with role-playing exercises for planning and rolling-out Urban EbA training.