A. Saleem Khan1, A. Ramachandran2, P. Malini3 and N. Usha4
Abstract
The worlds climate is changing and will continue to change in the coming century at rates projected to be unprecedented in recent human history. The risks associated with these changes are real but highly uncertain. Adequate attention must be given to respond to the impacts of climate change that are already occurring, while at the same time preparing for future impacts. It is important to understand the nature of those risks, where natural and human systems are likely to be most vulnerable, and what may be achieved by adaptive responses. It is most urgent to ensure adequate and rapid support to the most vulnerable countries and communities. Adaptation is one such significant measure that reduces vulnerability to actual or expected climate change effects. There is an urgent need for adaptation assessment in the short-term, as witnessed by the increasingly high costs of extreme weather events, compounded by rising population densities, eroding natural protection systems and aging infrastructure. In this context, the review and theoretical perspective of this study provides an insight of broad patterns in defining adaptation, need for adaptation, strategies of adaptation, types and challenges of adaptation. The issues raised in this note present some real reasons for concern and urge the significant facets of adaptation in mainstream discourses on climate change.