Adapting to climate change

The global impacts of climate change are already becoming evident and further climate changes are inevitable due to the greenhouse gas emissions already in the atmosphere. In New Zealand climate change could have significant impacts on our economy, environment and society.  The impacts are likely to vary between the different regions of New Zealand.

We need to take action so that we can be more resilient to our current climate, less susceptible to the impacts of future climate change and in a position to take advantage of opportunities.

While there is some inevitable uncertainty about the timing and exact nature of climate change impacts, many of the costs can be avoided or reduced with effective forward planning. In addition planning can bring about benefits such as improved water quality and better management of scarce resources.

To help New Zealand build its resilience and plan ahead, the government has formed partnerships with organisations such as local government, engineers, the insurance industry and the agriculture sector. The Ministry of the Environment also produces a range of information and guidance materials on the impacts of climate change and how we can adapt to and prepare for these impacts

• Adaptation and local government
• Adaptation and planning
• Adaptation in agriculture and forestry
• Engineering Lifelines and Emergency Management
• Adaptation in the community
• Adaptation and central government

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Email information@mfe.govt.nz

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