Building knowledge to support adaptation: lessons from the regional climate change adaptation knowledge platform for Asia

This policy brief summarizes lessons learned through Climate Change Adaptation Knowledge Platform (AKP) about critical gaps in knowledge about climate change, adaptation and vulnerability, as well as how best to fill them.

It asserts that national-level knowledge about projected climate change impacts, sectoral implications, drivers of vulnerability, and potential adaptation measures varies greatly across Asia. Some countries, especially those which have faced major hazards and risks, such as the Philippines and Bangladesh have built a significant knowledge base, while others still have little to work with.

The policy highlights that knowledge about climate change and adaptation at sub-national levels is far more limited, especially at the local level. Research also found that local knowledge and traditions are crucial for effective adaptation, but are sorely underrepresented in most countries’ current adaptation knowledge base. Participatory processes that combine capacity-building with knowledge generation can help bridge these gaps. Engaging policy-makers, planners and a broad range of stakeholders can also help build local capacity for adaptation.