Adaptation to Climate Change (Communication)

The European Commission initially wants to adopt non-binding guidelines to make it easier for the Member States to adapt to the negative consequences of climate change. For this purpose, the Commission wants to support the build-up and provision of knowledge about adaptation measures. In addition, the European standardisation organisations are to examine whether industry standards, in the areas of energy, transport and construction, take sufficient account of climate change.

cepPolicyBrief

In principle, it is appropriate to take measures to adapt to the negative effects of climate change. At the present time, however, the appropriate individual adaptation strategies cannot always be reliably determined. Where no cross-border effects are likely, making the harmonisation of adaptation strategies mandatory is ill-conceived. The build-up of knowledge about the likely consequences for the climate and the effectiveness and cost of the adaptation measures is necessary. Examining whether industrial standards take sufficient account of climate change is sensible.