A Guide for Trade Unions: Adaptation to Climate Change and the World of Work

Climate change adaptation means “anticipating the ad- verse effects of climate change and taking appropriate action to prevent or minimize the damage they can cause or taking advantage of opportunities that may arise”. The primary objective of adaptation is to reduce climate vulnerability of specific regions, economic sectors or populations.

This guide has several objectives: first of all, it provides a clear definition of the concept of adaptation to climate change. Second, it aims to give the reader a clear idea of how climate change consequences will affect the different European regions and sectors. Third, it aims to explain what effects climate change will have on health and safety of workers. Finally, it details a set of recommendations and looks at existing practices to allow trade unions to take action on adaptation at the various levels.