CAR tool supports translation of NDCs and NAPs into concrete actions
A new tool supported by the International Climate Initiative (IKI) helps to link practical action with long-term planning and implementation through nationally determined contributions (NDC) and National Adaptation Plans (NAP).
As climate change impacts escalate, sectors such as agriculture, livestock, forestry, fisheries, and aquaculture are facing reduced yields, supply chain disruptions, and increased vulnerability to extreme weather events. Further temperature rises will only exacerbate these challenges, making current agricultural practices unsustainable, while disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, including women, indigenous peoples, and small-scale food producers.
Although institutional frameworks such as NDCs and NAPs exist, obstacles such as limited resources and technical capacity are significant challenges to their implementation, particularly in developing countries.
There is therefore an urgent need for practical tools to bridge the gap between policy intentions and on-the-ground actions, enabling stakeholders to take effective adaptation measures to meet climate change challenges.
Step forward the Climate Action Review (CAR) Tool, developed by FAO and UNDP as part of the IKI funded SCALA programme which links practical action with long-term planning and implementation through NDCs, NAPs, and other climate commitments.
What is the purpose of the CAR tool?
The CAR Tool aims to provide practical guidance to national adaptation planners and practitioners on how to move from high-level NDC and NAP planning to the actual implementation of locally relevant adaptation actions in the agriculture and land-use sectors, thereby fostering transformative potential for systems change.
It provides a practical, step-by-step approach to identifying actionable entry points for transformative change, building on the adaptation actions outlined in NDCs and NAPs. The tool is adaptable to different country contexts and strategic priorities, and facilitates evidence-based adaptation planning through participatory methods.
In addition, in its ’planning function‘, the tool provides insights into the strategic interventions needed for future adaptation efforts and is in line with international guidelines for the formulation and implementation of NAPs.
Who is the CAR tool for?
The CAR Tool is designed to support different stakeholders involved in climate action and adaptation planning. It supports NDC and NAP planners and focal points within government agencies. It also supports senior policy and technical units in relevant ministries and organisations involved in climate change initiatives and agriculture sector projects, as well as multilateral and bilateral organisations, civil society groups, and financial institutions committed to implementing NDCs and NAPs in the agriculture and land-use sectors.
How does the CAR tool work?
The key aspect of the tool is its focus on assessing the potential impact of planned adaptation measures to increase the resilience of agrifood systems to climate variability. This assessment uses six elements and 20 indicators of transformative climate action, and uses both quantitative and qualitative analysis to compare current and planned adaptation actions. The tool follows a structured five-step process:
- Preparing for the consultative assessment
- Short-listing adaptation priorities from NDCs and NAPs for evaluation
- Mapping stakeholders for consultation
- Assessing the transformative potential of adaptation priorities
- Developing an actionable roadmap for implementing transformative climate actions in the agriculture and land-use sectors
Country insights on the CAR Tool
The CAR Tool has been used in different countries as part of the SCALA programme to help them assess and align their climate priorities with targeted agriculture and land-use strategies.
In Mongolia, for example, the tool has been used to improve the resilience of the nomadic livestock production system, which is vital to the livelihoods of many communities. By identifying key climate actions—such as managing livestock numbers and mitigating land degradation—Mongolia has developed strategies that not only support environmental sustainability but also promote economic opportunities through improved meat exports.
Similarly, Uganda used the tool to assess its cattle corridor, a critical agricultural landscape facing significant climate risks. Using the tool revealed vulnerabilities such as limited access financeand entrenched social inequalities, prompting recommendations for climate adaptation planning and increased investment in sustainable practices. As a result, Uganda is now implementing strategies that improve livestock management while fostering gender-responsive development plans.
These experiences show how the tool supports countries in developing actionable climate solutions that are both effective and inclusive, while delivering co-benefits such as gender equality, social inclusion, and improved environmental stewardship.
The CAR tool handbook
To help users make effective use of the CAR Tool, a comprehensive handbook is available. This manual provides valuable insights into the background and rationale for transforming agricultural and land-use systems in the context of climate change. It provides step-by-step guidance on how to apply the CAR Tool and interpret the results to support evidence-based adaptation planning using participatory methods. It also presents strategies for creating actionable roadmaps for local NDC and NAP adaptation programming, facilitating resource mobilisation to accelerate transformative climate action in agriculture and land use.
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Contact
IKI Office
Zukunft – Umwelt – Gesellschaft (ZUG) gGmbH
Stresemannstraße 69-71
10963 Berlin
Further information on the CAR tool
