Adaptation

In the area of adaptation UNEP facilitates the development of better local climate data and its use in determining possible impacts of long-term climate change and short-term increased variability; it contributes to improving scientific methods and assessment tools, with a view to advancing the understanding of climate change impacts, vulnerability and adaptation needs; and it supports the improvement of the science and policy communities’ ability to undertake adaptation planning and cost effective preventive action, including that linked to disaster prevention efforts.

» UNEP Activities in Adaptation

For example:

• The Assessments of Impacts and Adaptations to Climate Change project has enhanced the scientific underpinnings of adaptation planning in developing countries,
• In the Amazon and La Plata river basins, science-based ecosystem management is reducing vulnerability. In the Himalayas, sensitive mountain ecosystems and the rate of glacier retreat are being monitored.
• UNEP is working to mainstream climate change into the UN Development Assistance Framework and other national planning processes. UNEP and UNDP are piloting adaptation measures in eight developing countries under the One UN strategy, and are assisting the world’s poorest countries to reduce vulnerability and ‘climate proof’ economies in areas ranging from infrastructure development to agriculture and health.
• UNEP/GRID-Arendal is leading the Many Strong Voices Programme which links people in the Arctic and Small Island Developing States in assessing climate change vulnerability, developing adaptation strategies, and communicating the need for deep cuts in greenhouse gas emissions.
• UNEP is working to encourage scientists, communities and policy makers to integrate climate proofing into energy, disaster management and forest policies.