The Goa State Climate Change Cell (GSCCC), established under the National Mission for Strategic Knowledge on Climate Change (NMSKCC) is housed at the Goa State Biodiversity Board (GSBB), Saligao, Goa. The State Climate Change Cell was actuated on 10 April 2023 and acts as a bridge between research / academic institutions, government departments, voluntary organizations, Biodiversity Management Committees (BMC’s), media, and the local people. The long-term mission of the State Climate Change Cell is to motivate people to protect the state’s biodiversity and conserve natural resources for future generations. Further, the Cell aims to empower all with sufficient knowledge to identify the impacts of climate change in Goa and adapt to the new norms. The State Climate Change Cell works to leverage climate change-related content across all departments by promoting research, knowledge generation, and capacity building, thus connecting the State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) with NMSKCC priorities of action under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
GSCCC’s Focus Areas:
Climate Data Analysis: GSCCC gathers and assesses climate data from diverse sources to understand climate change impacts on Goa, driving adaptation and mitigation strategies.
Awareness and Education: The cell raises awareness about climate change among the public, government officials, and businesses. It offers training and capacity-building programs on the subject.
Policy Implementation: GSCCC aids in developing and implementing climate change policies, collaborating with government bodies and stakeholders to integrate climate change considerations into their plans.
Research and Development: GSCCC supports research on climate change science, adaptation, and mitigation, advancing understanding and fostering innovative solutions.
Key Activities:
- Crafting a state-level climate change action plan.
- Conducting vulnerability assessments.
- Advocating eco-friendly practices in agriculture, tourism, and energy sectors.
- Enhancing public awareness.
- Delivering training on climate change.
- Supporting climate change research and development.
GSCCC is a collective endeavour involving governmental entities, academic institutions, research organizations, and NGOs. It plays a crucial role in Goa’s commitment to constructing a sustainable future amid the challenges of climate change.
