Limits to adaptation to climate change: a risk approach

Information

As attention to adaptation to climate change increases, there is a growing call for adaptation approaches that focus on risk management. There is also greater recognition that the rate and magnitude of climate variability and change may exceed the limits to adaptation of socio-ecological systems.

The talk will set out an actor-centred, risk-based definition for adaptation limits in social systems. Adaptation limits are framed as the point at which an actor's objectives cannot be secured from intolerable risks through adaptive actions.

These limits are significant because exceeding a limit will either result in intolerable losses on the affected actor or system, or precipitate a discontinuous (or transformational) change of behaviour by actors. Such discontinuities in behaviour have implications for the distribution of risks, with potentially significant governance consequences. Professor Berkhout will discuss further research into adaptation limits and challenges to risk governance.

For more information about Professor Frans Berkhout please click here.

Programme

16.00    Arrival

16:15    Limits to adaptation to climate change: a risk approach

17:15    Drinks reception with mulled wine and mince pies

18:00    Close

Registration

Please register for this event using the contact details below.