The impacts of climate change are tangible and quantifiableThey affect people, ecosystems and infrastructure all over the world, not just in one country. Countries and people who are already affected by The most vulnerable of various factors are particularly hard hit by the impacts of climate change. They have few means to defend themselves against this additional impact. At the same time, however, only comprehensive and proactive approach to various risks can ensure sustainable development and prevent the loss of progress already made. Climate change adaptation policy within the EU is therefore inextricably linked to European and international responses to the impacts of global warming.

At the European level, climate change adaptation is integrated into the framework European Green Deal (European Green Deal). The EU Adaptation Strategy, published in the context of the 2021 Green Deal, focuses on smarter, faster and more systematic adaptation measures and to strengthen adaptation measures at international level. The 2021 European Climate Law stipulates that the relevant EU institutions and Member States must ensure continued progress in terms of adaptive capacity, strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change. To this end, Member States must develop and implement national adaptation strategies and plans. The Commission published recommendations for the design of these national plans in 2023, which also contributed to the German strategy. Regular reporting on progress at EU and national level is provided and assessed by the Commission. The first European Climate Risk Assessment (EUCRA), published in 2024, sets out a common understanding of the risks at EU level and underlines the urgency of action. The Commission has also created a new instrument – the EU Climate Change Adaptation Mission – to enable large-scale, systemic changes towards adaptation by 2030. Reporting requirements are set at different levels (national, EU, UN) and need to be aligned as much as possible.

A comprehensive approach to climate change adaptation for any EU country, building on the EU framework and examples such as German strategy, should include the following elements:

• Strong governance and legal framework: Adaptation should be embedded in all sectoral policies and at all levels of government. A politically agreed legal, institutional and methodological framework provides long-term guidance.
• Interdepartmental and multilevel cooperation: Cooperation between ministries, government agencies, regional governments and municipalities is key. Cooperation within the EU and at international level is also important.
• Stakeholder engagement: It is effective joint effort all stakeholders, including the private sector, industry, associations and the scientific community.
• Scientific basis and risk analysis: Strategic decisions should be informed by scientific evidence, such as climate change monitoring reports and comprehensive climate risk assessments. Identifying risks requiring the most urgent action is a priority.
• Setting measurable goals: Focusing on specific, measurable goals is important for the effectiveness and transparency of adaptation. Progress should be measured through indicators.
• Action plans and measures: In addition to the strategy, there should be action plans summarizing tools and measures.
• Sectoral and cross-sectional approach: Adaptation affects various sectors such as infrastructure, land and land use, human health, urban development, water, economy. They should also be addressed cross-sectional action areas including funding, research, education, personal preparation measures and providing basic digital data.
• Integration with other policies: It is essential to align the adaptation strategy with other relevant national and European strategies to avoid contradictions and exploit synergies.
• Financial preparedness and damage assessment: The significant financial losses recorded from extreme weather events highlight the need to collect data on losses and monitor adaptation spending. Preventive measures that reduce damage are important.
• Public awareness and preparedness: Raising public awareness of risks and protection options is an important part of civil protection. Education and capacity building are an important prerequisite for the successful implementation of measures.
• Natural solutions: Promoting natural solutions and enhancing biodiversity contribute to the resilience of ecosystems and improve adaptive capacities (e.g. in urban areas or in the economy).

The aim of this comprehensive approach is to build a climate-resilient country with a high quality of life, despite climate change. It is long-term effort, which requires the involvement of all levels of society. Spring