ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE

Abstract

Measures concerning climate change call for two types of response. In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate climate change, it is also necessary to adapt to the inevitable consequences. Adaptation requires a strategic approach to enable the adoption of timely and effective adaptation measures and to ensure consistency between different sectors of the economy and levels of management. The purpose of adaptation is to reduce the risk and damage caused by the current and future adverse effects in a way that is cost effective and exploits potential benefits. The process of adaptation will require the minimisation of negative effects and the use of positive ones. What is needed is effective cooperation between different segments of society, a good understanding of the decision-making process and identification of potential adaptation options. The European Community, based on extensive consultation, published several documents on the topic of adaptation. Moreover, in 2012, the European Climate Adaptation Platform (CLIMATE-ADAPT) was launched, designed for policy makers at the EU and national levels.