Step 3.1 Identifying adaptation options

Key message

Adaptation options means the adaptation measures available and appropriate for addressing the vulnerabilities, exposure to climate-related hazards, and potential impacts you identified in Step 2.

To understand the types of adaptation options available, check out the following:

• The European Environment Agency's (EEA) Key Type Measures catalogue of various adaptation options outlined in some national adaptation plans is offering a good overview of the measures used and required. Adopting this method contributes to a harmonised approach across EU countries, providing clarity and a systematic framework for reporting on adaptation.
• Climate-ADAPT’s adaptation options are searchable by climate impact, adaptation sector and Key Type Measure.

After reviewing the available adaptation options, compile a catalogue of those that address the priorities and objectives from your climate risk assessment (Step 2.3). Bear in mind the following:

Deploy different types of adaptation options that can complement and strengthen each other, moving away from the mindset of 'one risk, one solution'. This also means going beyond risk mitigation (e.g. flood defences) and also considering accepting losses (e.g. relocation from vulnerable areas) or seizing new opportunities (e.g. improved agricultural conditions). Plus, adaptation options should aim to reduce vulnerability to climate hazards for people, sectors/systems, while also taking into account trans-regional and cascade impacts.

Identify and consider policies or programmes already in place (Step 1.1) that may align with your adaptation goals, thus reducing the need for new actions. This is especially helpful if you’re reviewing existing plans. Also, consult the national authority about compulsory, recommended, or nationally relevant adaptation measures to consider and include

These should be concise and informative, supporting stakeholder discussions and decision-making later (Step 4.2). Have a factsheet for each adaptation option considered, with details like climate risks addressed, financial and other needs, and practical implementation. To assist your decision-making in Step 4, you may include information about who is responsible for, who is involved with, and who benefits from each option. Climate-ADAPT’s adaptation options offer valuable information, while their structure can be used as a basis for developing your own factsheets and building your catalogue.