Call for Proposals: Flood Risk Management using Nature-Based Solutions in Albania

Deadline: 04-Dec-2024

UNDP Albania has issued a Call for Low Value Grants Proposals under the framework of the Adaptation Fund-funded project “Integrated climate-resilient transboundary flood risk management in the Drin River basin in the Western Balkans (Drin FRM Project)”, to support projects proposed by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) for the implementation of “Flood Risk Management Using Nature-Based Solutions (NBS).”

The project will contribute to strengthening of the current flood forecasting and early warning system by increasing the density of the hydrometric network, and by digitizing historical data for stations not currently in the existing forecasting model. The project will develop and implement transboundary integrated FRM strategies providing the national authorities with robust and innovative solutions for FRM, DRR and climate adaptation, including ecosystem-based gender sensitive participatory approaches.

Purpose of the grant

• The purpose of this grant scheme is to support interested Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) by enabling them to contribute to enhancing capacities in effective flood risk management through utilizing Nature-Based Solutions to safeguard both people and their livelihoods from flooding while also aiming to minimize future losses. Through nature-based solutions, communities can reduce their vulnerability to flooding while also enhancing biodiversity, improving water quality, providing additional recreational and aesthetic benefits, etc.

Objectives

• Main objectives of the call for grants
  • The interested CSOs shall submit proposals providing innovative ideas in the area of:
    • Enhancing Forestry and Ecosystem Services: Promote activities that restore and improve forest ecosystems to mitigate flood risks while contributing to carbon sequestration.
    • Carbon Sequestration and Ecosystem Health: Implement initiatives that increase carbon capture through afforestation, reforestation, and the maintenance of green spaces.
    • Community-Driven Nature-Based Solutions: Engage local communities in flood risk management through NBS, encouraging community participation and education around forest conservation and sustainable land use practices.
  • Some areas of interest, but not limited to, where applicants can focus on are:
    • Afforestation and Reforestation: Expand and restore forests in flood-prone areas to enhance soil stability, increase water absorption. Planting native species will improve forest health, contributing to long-term ecosystem resilience.
    • Agroforestry Initiatives: Combine agriculture with forestry to create multifunctional landscapes that protect against flooding, enhance biodiversity, and increase carbon sequestration. This practice provides communities with sustainable livelihoods while reducing flood risk.
    • Riparian Buffer Zones: Establish and maintain vegetated areas along riverbanks to stabilize soil, absorb excess water, and promote ecosystem health. These buffer zones also serve as carbon sinks and enhance biodiversity.
    • Wetland Restoration: Wetlands act as natural sponges, absorbing and storing excess water during heavy rainfall. Restoring degraded wetlands can reduce flood risk while improving water quality and enhancing carbon capture.
    • Ecosystem Conservation Education: Engage communities in the protection and management of local forests. By raising awareness and involving locals in the maintenance and monitoring of these areas, communities can help sustain NBS and prevent destructive land use practices.

Funding Information

• Proposal amounts should be up to USD 50,000

Duration

• Duration of the project shall be from December 2024 to April 2025.

Outcomes

• The three main outcomes of the project are:
  • Improved climate and risk informed decision-making, availability, and use of climate risk information.
  • Improved institutional arrangements, legislative and policy framework for climate resilient FRM, and development of CCA and FRM strategy and plans at the basin, subbasin, national and sub-national levels.
  • Strengthened community resilience through improved flood management, through implementation of structural and non-structural measures and enhanced local capacity for CCA and FRM.

Eligibility Criteria

• Interested CSOs must meet the following criteria to be eligible for selection:
  • Be legally registered as a CSO in accordance with the Albanian legislation.
  • Have relevant knowledge of the proposed target area.
  • Mandate and founding document should be in line with the activities for which the fund is being sought
  • Have an established office and experience in similar/related activities.
  • Have previous experience in working with local community and other stakeholder groups.

For more information, visit UNDP.