Climate Adaptation and Protected Areas (CAPA) Initiative
The Climate Adaptation and Protected Areas (CAPA) Initiative is a 3-year project that aims to use nature-based solutions (NbS) to strengthen climate resilience and protect biodiversity in and around protected areas in the Kavango-Zambezi and Greater Virunga landscapes in sub-Saharan Africa, Belize, and Fiji.
Our Approach
The CAPA Initiative is working with local communities, traditionally underrepresented groups, women, and national and local authorities to design and implement tangible gender-responsive, conflict-sensitive NbS for adaptation in and around protected areas and critical landscapes.
The initiative is being implemented by the International Institute for Sustainable Development in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society and the World Wide Fund for Nature, with funding support from Global Affairs Canada.
The CAPA Initiative seeks to
- tap into the potential of NbS to support local communities in adapting to climate change while safeguarding critical ecosystems and biodiversity in and around protected areas,
- better integrate climate adaptation considerations into the management of protected areas, and
- Increase the agency of women and underrepresented groups to participate in the design and implementation of NbS for adaptation and in climate-resilient management plans for protected areas.
Bringing Wildlife Back
In late 2025, a process kicked off to translocate over 200 impala, wildebeest, and zebra to Sioma Ngwezi National Park in southwestern Zambia. The first batch of animals was delivered toward the end of September, and calves have already been sighted among the newly established herds, bringing new life to areas of the park that had seen little wildlife in recent decades.
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Project Sites
Belize
In Belize, the Climate Adaptation and Protected Areas (CAPA) Initiative will address water security concerns; protect biodiversity; improve hydrological functions; stabilize and enhance degraded soil; and support ecosystem services for local communities.
Fiji
In Fiji, the Climate Adaptation and Protected Areas (CAPA) Initiative will promote sustainable fisheries; support reforestation; safeguard locally managed marine areas; train local communities; preserve functional and healthy ecosystems; and improve flood mitigation.
The Greater Virunga Landscape
In the Greater Virunga Landscape (GVL), the Climate Adaptation and Protected Areas (CAPA) Initiative will focus on nature-positive livelihood interventions and the restoration of degraded lands in and around protected areas. Working with local civil society and community members, CAPA Initiative activities will be carried out in southwest Uganda.
The Kavango-Zambezi Landscape
In the Kavango-Zambezi (KAZA) Transfrontier Conservation Area landscape, the Climate Adaptation and Protected Areas (CAPA) Initiative will promote the restoration of forest cover; restocking wildlife; supporting nature-positive livelihoods; and stabilizing headwater, riverine, and lagoon wetlands to enhance ecosystem integrity and biodiversity.
More on CAPA
Conflict-Sensitive Conservation in a Changing Climate
This webinar unpacked what conflict-sensitive conservation is, why it matters, and how to design and implement effective interventions. Drawing on the panel’s expertise and real-world examples, the webinar highlighted how conflict-sensitive approaches can help people and ecosystems thrive together in times of dramatic change.
Restoring Wetlands and Weaving Tradition: How Fijian coastal communities are building climate resilience
From reviving kuta weaving to patrolling coastal waters, Fijian communities are taking action to safeguard biodiversity, prevent illegal fishing, and build resilience in the face of climate change.
Conflict-Sensitive Nature-Based Solutions
Discover how conflict-sensitive nature-based solutions (NbS) for adaptation can help people and ecosystems thrive together.
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