Files

• Defining Adaptation and Distinguishing It from Other Development Investments

Date

January, 2024

Author(s)

• Clare Church
• Anne Hammill

Abstract

As the effects of climate change become more discernable in ecosystems, economies and communities, the urgency of understanding, preparing for and adjusting to its impacts grows. Indeed, adaptation has become integral to responding to the climate crisis and securing sustainable development outcomes around the world. While there is a growing consensus around the need for adaptation, a unifying operational definition does not yet exist particularly for guiding resource allocation and/or investment decisions. However, researchers and practitioners alike agree on some of its core features: adaptation is an ongoing, iterative process that precludes characterizations of a final adapted state; its overarching aim is to reduce the vulnerability of people and places to both current and future risks and changes; it requires climate information even if uncertain or rudimentary-to understand why and what kind of adjustments are needed; its execution and benefits are often context-specific, as both the manifestations of climate change and abilities to respond to them are shaped by local circumstances; and adaptation often involves planning for or managing uncertainty..

Citation

Defining Adaptation and Distinguishing It from Other Development Investments; 2019, The International Institute for Sustainable Development; P31

Publisher

The International Institute for Sustainable Development

Rights Holder

The International Institute for Sustainable Development

URI

https://knowledgehub.pksf.org.bd/collections/OGhTVnYwaEQ1ZUFESlovR2dpNjdMUT09