Adapting to climate change: Advice for flood and coastal erosion risk management authorities

This publication explores how risk management authorities can account for climate change within their flood and coastal erosion risk management investment decisions. It provides guidance for authorities to carry out a credible economical appraisal, taking into account the uncertainties associated with climate change.

The document suggests that in a context where an adaptive approach to managing risks may not be technically or economically feasible, a precautionary approach may be the only feasible or best option. On the other hand, precautionary options might lead to greater levels of investment at fewer locations, whereas an adaptive approach might ensure a fairer and more flexible spread of public investment.