Supporting climate change adaptation planning and policy
The 'Methodology for effective decision-making on impacts and adaptation (MEDIATION)' (MEDIATION) project determined that the development of dynamic adaptation policy needs more easily accessible and policy-relevant information. To this end, researchers first mapped the knowledge requirements related to ongoing impact assessment and adaptation policy developments for various decision domains. This was done in consultation with relevant decision makers and stakeholders. Following, they reviewed, connect, and developed or improved existing methods, tools and metrics. Development of the MEDIATION framework was based on the results of 11 case studies reflecting different regions, climatic risks and institutional contexts. Developed for four distinct regions of Europe, as well as the EU as a whole, case studies covered topics such as forest fires, agriculture and water resources, livestock, sea-level rise and flooding risk. Countries included Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Serbia and Spain. Using input from other projects and literature reviews, method teams analysed the different policy contexts and methods used to arrive at an overarching methodology. This was named the MEDIATION Diagnostic Adaptation Framework. The interlinked framework comprises generic methodologies, natural science-based models, socioeconomic evaluation methods, and social and institutional analytical concepts. As a diagnostic support tool, it supports problem-oriented adaptation research and organises adaptation questions into a logical structure, linking them with suitable methods and tools. Available via an interactive platform, the framework is intended for experts involved in policy advice and analysis, or other research related to climate change adaptation decision making. The platform allows a search for appropriate methods and tools, and includes the MEDIATION Toolbox and a case study search tool. Project outcomes better aligned the fragmented knowledge base supporting decisions related to climate change adaptation in Europe. By matching the information and tools advanced by scientists with the needs and capacities of stakeholders, the framework helps decision makers realise more effective adaptation planning. The results of this project and others similar in scope help reduce Europe's vulnerability to climate change and its potential threats to well-being and prosperity.
Keywords
Climate change, adaptation policy, adaptation planning, diagnostic support tool, decision making
