Methods and tools
- Applications of methods and tools in climate adaptation
- This UNFCCC document provides a synthesis of current adaptation approaches, methods and tools, as well as scenario-based studies and regional climate models. The paper concludes that, with respect to methods and tools, a combination of top down 'scenario' approaches and a bottom-up 'vulnerabilty' driven approach is highly appropriate for integration into wider sustainable development strategies. Futhermore, scenario-based studies can effectively support policy making at all levels and are suitable for identifying long term adaptation targets.
One of the legacies of decades of development and disasters work is a collection of sophisticated methodologies and tools; for use by donors, communities and NGOs. The new challenges presented by climate change have created a research focus on how to build on and modify these methodologies and tools for use in work on climate adaptation.
For example, community-based adaptation employs participatory and integrated vulnerability assessments, which are derivatives of participatory rural appraisal; a staple of the development field. Climate risk assessments and multi-criteria impact analysis are also commonly used by agencies at different scales, and portfolio screening tools are used by donors to assess the risks posed by climate change to their work. The range of tools used in climate adaptation work also includes more technology-laden decision support systems for national and local governments; often based on geographic information systems with climate scenario features.
The task of formulating and testing indicators for climate adaptation and adaptive capacity remains in its infancy.
For example, community-based adaptation employs participatory and integrated vulnerability assessments, which are derivatives of participatory rural appraisal; a staple of the development field. Climate risk assessments and multi-criteria impact analysis are also commonly used by agencies at different scales, and portfolio screening tools are used by donors to assess the risks posed by climate change to their work. The range of tools used in climate adaptation work also includes more technology-laden decision support systems for national and local governments; often based on geographic information systems with climate scenario features.
The task of formulating and testing indicators for climate adaptation and adaptive capacity remains in its infancy.
More on methods and tools: the complete listings from Eldis
