How climate activists finally seized the issue of adaptation in 2023

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Conversation or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The European climate movement's perspective on adaptation has evolved significantly in 2023
• High-profile protests against ski resorts and water reservoir projects in France and Switzerland have highlighted the urgent need for rethinking climate adaptation strategies to more sustainable, inclusive approaches

🔭 The context: Traditionally, adaptation was viewed skeptically by many within the climate movement, seen as a concession to fossil fuel interests
• However, recent events have challenged this stance, demonstrating the deeply political nature of climate adaptation and the concept of "transformational adaptation" as defined by the IPCC

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: These protests and the broader discussion around adaptation underscore the complexity of addressing climate change
• It's not just about reducing emissions but also about how societies adjust to inevitable changes, ensuring actions do not further harm vulnerable ecosystems or communities

⏭️ What's next: The growing recognition of adaptation's importance may shift climate activism towards advocating for transformative adaptation policies that address systemic vulnerabilities and promote sustainable development
• This could include a greater focus on local, community-led adaptation efforts that are inclusive and equitable

💬 One quote: "The question of adaptation was therefore thrust into the spotlight like rarely before," (Joost de Moor, Professor at Sciences Po)

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