Climate change adaptation principles: bringing adaptation to life in the marine biodiversity and resources setting

Abstract

Preparing for change requires individuals, institutions, and sectors to work together. Climate Change adaptation action on the ground and across all levels of decision making within the marine biodiversity and resources sector should be guided by the most recent adaptation science, research and practice. A series of high level guiding principles have been drafted (this document). They reflect the knowledge and expertise of researchers, resource managers, policy makers and resource users with direct experience in developing or applying adaptation knowledge. The principles were developed following a one day workshop Bringing Adaptation to Life, held in April 2011 in Cairns, Australia. Organised by the Australian Governments Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA), the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility (NCCARF), and the NCCARF's Marine Adaptation Network, the workshop brought together leading thinkers and practitioners to share experiences and lessons learned from working in the sector. The day comprised a range of presentations from participants, as well as small group working sessions.