Definition 1
Climate Change Adaptation means the process of adjustment or preparation of ecological, social or economic, natural or human systems to the actual or anticipated climate and its effects in a way that moderates harm or exploits beneficial opportunities.
Definition 2
Climate Change Adaptation Measures means the measures taken by [organisation name] [and [name of supply chain partner]] to avoid or to reduce the actual or anticipated impacts of climate change [and to meet climate change commitments including those related to adaptation as set out in the [environmental policy]].
Drafting notes and guidance
Climate change adaptation measures refer to changes in processes, practices and structures to help communities and businesses manage the negative effects of climate change or benefit from the opportunities. Examples include:
- Adaptation of human systems:
- The construction of barriers to protect against rising sea tides
- Decentralisation of energy distribution
- Security of indigenous peoples and their rights
- Improvement of mass transit.
- Adaptation of natural systems:
- The protection of locations and/or climates that support isolated populations of a previously more widespread species to safeguard biodiversity
- Protection of coastal wetlands
- Promotion of the benefits of sustainable agroforestry.
Related concepts
Adaptation from a socio-ecological systems perspective:
Three key aspects of adaptation might include:
- Maintaining diversity: Diverse crop species can ensure food security in the face of disease outbreaks or climate change.
- Managing slow or gradual variables: Climate-resilient agriculture practices, like agroforestry, can help farmers adapt to changing weather patterns.
- Fostering complex thinking: A holistic management approach can help build resilience to sea-level rise and storm surges in coastal communities.
Organisations may consider learning more about the concepts of adaptation science, adaptive capacity and adaptive management.