Book Description

"Preparing for risks posed by climate change and planning for adaptation at local government and community levels is essential for the safety and security of society, as well as for its economic, environmental and social well-being. Changes in the climate are often reflected by floods, heatwaves, droughts, coastal erosion and other impacts that have been identified across the globe, which pose threats to life, property, economic well-being and to ecosystems. The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has projected that global warming from past anthropogenic emissions will persist for centuries to millennia and will continue to cause further long-term changes in the climate system such as sea level rise, with associated impacts. This document presents guidance for local governments and communities on how to prepare for such threats and the associated risks. The document recognizes that the impacts posed by climate change vary widely from region to region, and directly affect communities’ well-being and local governments including the public services they offer, as well as the safety and security of individuals within their jurisdiction. It is the responsibility of local governments and communities to provide leadership in planning and preparing to manage these risks. This document also describes how to develop an adaptation plan at the local government and community levels. The planning process details why and how to establish an appropriate (well-structured and collaborative) governance structure and the elements of the adaptation planning and implementation processes. These details include establishing a facilitation team, assessing risks and developing an effective plan, monitoring the progress of adaptation implementation and evaluating its achievement with the aim of improving the plan. The step-by-step process presented enables tailoring of the local adaptation plan to suit the climate, environmental and societal conditions in each case. Following this document will lead to developing a robust, effective adaptation plan that can be implemented, promoting appropriate climate action today and in the future. It is important to note that the climate is changing, and planning and implementing adaptation is a continual learning and improvement process that requires sustained attention and action. This document will help local governments and communities in taking initial action to create a safe, socially and economically secure and sustainable society that is resilient to current and future impacts of climate change." -- Introduction from publisher's webpage