Climate Change Adaptation at USAID

Goal

To help countries accelerate their transition to climate-resilient, low emissions development

Overarching Principle

To strengthen development outcomes through direct climate change program investments and by integrating climate change throughout USAID programming, learning, policy dialogues, and internal operations.

“We must also energize our efforts to put other developing nations — especially the poorest and most vulnerable — on a path to sustained growth. These nations do not have the same resources to combat climate change as countries like the United States or China do, but they have the most immediate stake in a solution. For these are the nations that are already living with the unfolding effects of a warming planet — famine, drought, disappearing coastal villages, and the conflicts that arise from scarce resources. Their future is no longer a choice between a growing economy and a cleaner planet, because their survival depends on both. It will do little good to alleviate poverty if you can no longer harvest your crops or find drinkable water.

And that is why we have a responsibility to provide the financial and technical assistance needed to help these nations adapt to the impacts of climate change and pursue low-carbon development.”

—Barack Obama

Source: USAID
Year: 2012