To maintain stable economic growth, developing countries will need to adapt to the changing climate, and the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit of the private sector can enable them to do so. Since the majority of the population in the developing world relies on micro and small businesses for their livelihoods, it is imperative that this segment of the economy becomes more resilient to future climate impacts. At the same time, these businesses are well positioned to develop and sell products and services that strengthen the resilience of vulnerable communities.

At this high-level event at COP21 in Paris, WRI and UNDP are launching the report Adapting from the Ground Up: Enabling Small Businesses in Developing Countries to Adapt to Climate Change. The report gives a new perspective on the role of the private sector in climate change adaptation. It highlights small businesses as a key player in building resilience at the community level, sharing stories that show how micro and small enterprises can enable communities around the world to build resilience.

Keynote speakers and panelists will describe actions that policymakers can take to support vulnerable business enterprises. By attending the event, international finance providers, national government officials, and business representatives will learn how to engage micro and small businesses in adaptation efforts throughout the developing world.

Speakers

Keynotes:

  • Helen Clark, Administrator, United Nations Development Programme
  • Andrew Steer, President and CEO, World Resources Institute

High-Level Panel:

  • Mr. Pa Ousman Jarju, Minister of Environment, Climate Change, Forestry, Water and Wildlife, The Gambia
  • Dr. Tin Ponlok, Secretary General, Cambodia National Council for Sustainable Development
  • Dr. Theo de Jager, President, Pan African Farmers’ Organization; President, Southern African Confederation of Agricultural Unions
  • Dr. Robert Rutaagi, Chairperson, Uganda National Meteorological Authority
  • Ms. Francine Stevens, Director of Innovation, Vodafone Global Enterprises

Rajesh Mirchandani, Senior Director of Communications and Policy Outreach, Center for Global Development (Moderator)

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