Project Summary:

Climate change is recognized as a key development challenge for Moldova, given the increased frequency and intensity of natural hazards in the country and the high vulnerability and exposure of its population, economy and environment. It is made even more problematic by Moldova’s heavy reliance on the agricultural sector and the high share of rural population and rural poverty. Significant impacts of climate variability have been visible in recent years, with recurring severe drought and flood events. 

Climate change projections point to increasing temperatures and likely further aridification. The expected impacts are likely to be manifold, affecting – among others – agricultural productivity, availability of water resources, energy security, vulnerability of ecosystems and human health. The project intervention will put in place the enabling conditions for an inclusive green transition in the Republic of Moldova, through a combination of cross-sectorial decision-making in joint stakeholder platforms, capacity building measures, general education and awareness raising, dissemination of best policy practices, information sharing and networking, pilot-testing green-transition related solutions and other activities, to ensure that the green transformation perspective is well understood and embraced.  

Objective:

Support the Government of Moldova to engage sustainably in a transformative green agenda by enhancing awareness, building capacities, and encouraging investments in low-emission and resource-efficient economy.

Expected results:

• Improved institutional coordination and stakeholders’ participation in green transition policy processes through the establishment and strengthening of relevant stakeholder platforms, partnerships and networks, with secured gender-balanced participation and appropriate multilevel coordination mechanisms in place;
• Improved evidence bases for policy dialogues and decision making on the potential for an inclusive green transition in the Republic of Moldova, including from the gender perspective;
• Inclusive and gender-responsive green transition in key economic areas fostered through an agreed project pipeline and pilot initiatives developed;
• Skills, knowledge, and expertise necessary for green transition are put in place, with women and youth promoted as agents of change for green transition at different levels (households, business and institutions);
• Awareness raised and capacities created at national and local level, within private and public sector level to advocate for and advance the green development agenda in Moldova, while leaving no one behind;
• Pilot green projects on energy and eco-innovation deployed with the view of attracting additional private investments (including empowering women to develop start-ups in these areas);
• New business models set up along the circular economy value chain and in line with the clean and resource efficient production approach, making sure to integrate also a gender dimension (through dedicated support to women-led businesses);
• The use of renewable energy technologies and innovative sustainable transport and mobility solutions expanded in view of contributing to the emissions reduction;
• Evidence based monitoring and evaluation of progress facilitated through delivery and installing of regular air monitoring stations of the Moldovan air quality monitoring system.