Coastal Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerabilities - Climate ...

Chapter 5Adaptation and MitigationKey FindingsffffffffffffAlthough adaptation planning activities in the coastal zone are increasing, theygenerally occur in an adhoc manner and at varied spatial scales dictated byon-the-ground needs and adaptation drivers in the particular area. Efficiency ofadaptation can be improved through integration into overall land use planningand ocean and coastal management. High Confidence.In some cases, adaptation is being directly integrated, or mainstreamed, intoexisting decision-making frameworks regarding zoning and floodplain, coastal,and emergency management, but these frameworks are not always perfect fit andsometimes existing laws pose a barrier to implementation. Very High Confidence.Tools and resources to support adaptation planning are increasing but technicaland data gaps persist. As adaptation planning has evolved, recognitionhas grown regarding the need for detailed information that is compatible withorganizational decision-making processes and management systems. Very HighConfidence.Although adaptation planning has an increasingly rich portfolio of case studiesthat contribute to shared learning, the implementation of adaptation plans hasproceeded at a much slower pace. Very High Confidence.Elements commonly found in adaptation plans include vulnerability assessments,monitoring and indicators, capacity building, education and outreach,regulatory and programmatic changes, implementation strategies, and a sectorby-sectorapproach. Very High Confidence.Although state and federal governments play a major role in facilitating adaptationplanning, most coastal adaptation will be implemented at the local level.Local governments are the primary actors charged with making the critical,basic land-use and public investment decisions and with working with communitystakeholder groups to implement adaptive measures on the ground. VeryHigh Confidence.5.1: Adaptation Planning in the Coastal ZoneIn the ten years since the first National Assessment of the Potential Consequences of ClimateVariability and Change, the science and policy landscape for adaptation has evolved significantly.Adaptation is emerging as an essential strategy for managing climate risk and98