Climate adaptation is implemented locally even when national governments set the broad policy direction. Flood management, heat planning, building standards, water systems and emergency response are typically managed by cities, municipalities and regional authorities.
This makes local governance capacity a critical part of climate resilience. Authorities need reliable risk data, investment plans and coordination with utilities, health systems and communities.
Adaptation is most effective when it is integrated into ordinary infrastructure decisions rather than treated as a separate emergency programme.
Image: Nicholas Doherty / Unsplash.