Development of an International Institutional Framework for Climate Adaptation and Practice in Adaptation Planning in Developing Countries

Abstract

Adaptation to climate change is an iterative process the IPCC defines as “adjustment in natural or human systems in response to actual or expected climatic stimuli or their effects, which moderates harm or exploits beneficial opportunities”. Together with mitigation, adaptation is regarded as one of two fundamental pillars of efforts to address climate change. It is relatively new and underdeveloped, far smaller in terms of investments made so far, and since the level of uncertainty remains high, it poses enormous challenges for policymakers and investors to take concrete actions. One significant aspect is that it should be based on, and more integrated into, sustainable development planning. By introducing the historical development of international negotiations on climate change adaptation, and its recent dramatic changes, this chapter aims to provide a macro-perspective on an institutional framework regarding adaptation to climate change under the UNFCCC. It also argues that the focus of efforts at international, national, and local levels will shift to a more holistic approach instead of responding to adaptation needs on an ad hoc basis. This shift will happen by elaborating and implementing national and local adaptation plans that support a society resilient to climate change. Since experience with adaptation planning is still limited, it is important to share technical information based on national experience. By so doing, the international climate change regime can better serve the promotion of resilient societies at the national and local levels in a practical manner.