Adaptation, Climate Change

Anthropogenic (human-caused) climate change will seriously test our ability to plan and manage cities. Taken-for-granted urban institutions such as housing, industries, schools, hospitals, and transport systems will all likely be affected. Although the scale and intensity of impacts will vary, anticipated problems will have pernicious consequences, especially for the poor and politically disenfranchised. This article considers climate change adaptation concepts, issues, and responses. Beginning by briefly defining mitigation, adaptation, vulnerability, and resilience, this article identifies key players, provides examples of how some cities are already addressing threats, and discusses limitations to current adaptation practices.

With rising temperatures, heat waves will become more frequent and severe. Droughts, like this one in Louisiana, will threaten food and water supplies

Source: iStockphoto