Strengthening resilience to climate change: Recommendations for an effective EU adaptation policy framework

This report outlines how the European Union can strengthen its resilience to escalating climate‑related disasters by reinforcing its adaptation policy framework. It highlights that Europe is warming twice as fast as the global average, with increasingly severe hazards such as heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, floods, sea‑level rise and coastal erosion already causing major human and economic losses. The publication explains why current adaptation efforts remain insufficient, emphasising the systemic, transboundary nature of climate risks and the need for coordinated action across governance levels. It presents the scientific basis for preparing for higher warming levels—potentially 2.8–3.3 °C globally by 2100—and stresses that adaptation and mitigation must advance together to safeguard lives, livelihoods and critical infrastructure. 

The report recommends harmonised climate‑risk assessments across the EU, the adoption of a common reference scenario for adaptation planning, and the establishment of a clear long‑term vision for a climate‑resilient Europe. It calls for embedding fairness and justice into all adaptation policies, supported by robust monitoring and learning systems, and for mobilising both public and private investment to manage rising climate‑impact costs. Lessons emphasise that early, strategic adaptation delivers high societal returns, that systemic risks require EU‑level coherence and solidarity, and that mitigation remains essential to keep climate hazards within manageable limits.