Adaptive capacity of Switzerland to climate change

This research project focuses on assessing the adaptive capacity of Switzerland. Since past empirical studies – which have mostly taken place in developing countries – have identified several factors (finance, motivation, communication, etc.) which influence the ability of stakeholders at different levels to properly adapt to climate change, one may question to what extent such factors are met in the context of a developed country, in this case Switzerland. Supported by the Federal Office for the Environment of Switzerland (FOEN) this project started in September 2014 and is set for two years.

Objectives

• To identify potential barriers which limit the adaptive capacity of stakeholders (institutions, private sector and others)
  
• To develop sound measures that can enhance and improve adaptive capacity across sectors and stakeholders
  

Expected Outcome

• Empirical evidence about potential barriers limiting the adaptive capacity of Switzerland
  
• Contribute to achieve goals of the National Adaptation Strategy of Switzerland (improve the adaptive capacity of society, the economy and the environment)
  
• Allows (also in combination with the National Assessment of climate-related risks, FOEN) to identify fields of action and corresponding policy interventions Scientific results that will be considered in the progress and impact assessment of climate change adaptation in Switzerland.