Adaptation

Definition

"The process of adjustment to actual or expected climate and its effects. In human systems, adaptation seeks to moderate or avoid harm or exploit beneficial opportunities. In some natural systems, human intervention may facilitate adjustment to expected climate and its effects."

Source: IPCC

Explainer

Adaptation occurs through a number of adjustments that could reduce the harmful impacts of climate change on lives, livelihoods, ecosystems and the environment. In the context of the African continent, these adjustments include shifting to more drought-resilient crops in areas facing drought, sustainable water and forest management, reforestation and the use of renewable energy. In its second sub-goals, COP26 underscored the importance of adaptation by calling on the world to come together to “urgently adapt to protect communities and natural habitats”. Examples of locally-led adaptation actions in Senegal, Nigeria and Ghana can be found here.