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CLIMATE CHANGE FOCUS: Tunisia coastline in need of climate cash boost

Climate change is impacting Tunisia's coastal zones affecting both humans and marine biodiversity.
UNDP Tunisia
Climate change is impacting Tunisia's coastal zones affecting both humans and marine biodiversity.

CLIMATE CHANGE FOCUS: Tunisia coastline in need of climate cash boost

Climate and Environment

Efforts to mobilize the cash needed to ensure that climate change does not lead to the irreversible damage of Tunisia’s coastline are being undertaken by the North African country’s government, with the support of the UN Development Programme (UNDP).

Twenty years ago Tunisian fishermen were able to fish octopus off the coast of the North African country, but changes to the climate mean that is no longer possible.
Twenty years ago Tunisian fishermen were able to fish octopus off the coast of the North African country, but changes to the climate mean that is no longer possible. UNDP Tunisia

Tunisia’s extensive coastal areas are a crucial part of its economy providing tourist dollars and opportunities for income-generating activities like fishing.

However, a rise in the sea level, coastal erosion and an increase in the temperature of fishing waters caused by climate change are threatening habitats vital for both human activity and marine biodiversity.

The government is now working with UNDP to secure the investment for coastal defence and other climate adaptation interventions, while regulating development in delicate and exposed coastal regions.

Read more here about how Tunisia is adopting innovative strategies to protect its coastline and the livelihoods of its people