Decision making for ecosystem-based adaptation : methodological developments and field studies

Abstract

In the quest for adaptation to climate change, Ecosystem-based Adaptation is being distinguished for its integrated approach to reduce vulnerability to global changes and strengthen adaptive capacity of communities. Despite the notable progress of this concept on the international agenda, few obstacles still prevent it to be better embedded in decision-making and planning for climate adaptation. This research seeks to demonstrate that acknowledging ecosystem services in decision making for adaptation would result in the design and implementation of effective and sustainable responses. The research is built upon an integrated decision-support approach and proposes a methodological enrichment to incorporate the concept of ecosystem services in the decision cycle. Field studies from Macedonia and Guyana undertake a methodological journey to identify challenges and opportunities presented in its application. Therefore, this research strengthens the knowledge on possible paths to transform ecosystem services research into rigorous decisions.