What is the EU doing?

Whilst most individual adaptation measures need to happen at the local or regional level, looking at the bigger picture helps to drive forward the processes everywhere.

EU-level work concentrates on adding to current understanding of adaptation; integrating adaptation measures into all policies; identifying strategies and instruments for financing; and helping to develop international co-operation.

The EU’s role:

  • Spreading knowledge on climate change impacts and risks;
  • Providing guidance on best approaches;
  • Coordinating national activities, particularly when impacts cross borders such as in river basins;
  • Adopting legislation and targets; and
  • Providing funding.

Policies

At the end of 2009, the Commission produced a major report (a White Paper) that outlined future EU-level approaches to adaptation. The report described over 30 actions it should begin to put into practice across its various policies, ranging from awareness-raising efforts, to the development of a comprehensive information system on adaptation.
 
The European Commission created a dedicated Directorate-General to focus on climate change in 2010 (DG Climate Action [CLIMA]). This works to make adaptation to climate change a priority of all EU-level policies and coordinates EU adaptation policies.

Climate change is becoming an increasingly important consideration in many EU policies, particularly in the areas most vulnerable to climate change, including agriculture, marine affairs, energy, civil protection and regional policy.

The way ahead

DG CLIMA is working with relevant experts from different countries and sectors to develop a comprehensive adaptation strategy based on its White Paper, for release in 2013. It should further refine the key priorities for action and how EU policies in all areas can encourage effective adaptation action.
 
Work has begun on the European ‘climate change impacts vulnerability and adaptation clearing house’. This will make it easier to find information on adaptation and different approaches.

The clearing house, to be operational by 2012, should be the central point of reference on climate change adaptation for researchers, policy-makers and the public at large.

Another important aspect of the EU’s work on adaptation is to explore financing options, including the use of market-based instruments, insurance and public-private partnerships.

International action

Many of countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change are developing nations. In these regions, adaptation measures are needed in water management, agriculture, biodiversity, forest, desertification, energy, health, research, social policies and risk management.

The EU aims to ensure that its external policies take into account the need for adaptation, including in policy areas such as trade and development aid. It also provides financial assistance to support adaptation efforts through a number of funding mechanisms.

Launched in 2007, the EU works with developing countries as part of the Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA) PDF file, concentrating particularly on least developed countries and small island states.

The EU has proposed ambitious action on adaptation for developing countries in the ongoing international climate change negotiations held under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This includes the Framework for Action on Adaptation (FAA) PDF file.

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