Skip to main content.

Adaptation in the community

We will have to learn to live with some effects of climate change, which means we need to understand and adapt to the likely changes it will bring. We need to minimise the damages and maximise the opportunities by anticipating future changes and impacts, and by developing and putting in place adequate and appropriate mechanisms before the changes happen.

Because of the long lifetime of greenhouse gases and the fact that the climate system responds very slowly to changes in the level of greenhouse gases, there will still be changes in the climate even if we stopped using fossil fuels tomorrow. This makes it increasingly important for us prepare for the effects of those changes on our environment and communities, and that we take action now to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The longer we leave it, the bigger the climatic changes will be and the harder it will be to manage them.

Preparing for and adapting to climate change will minimise the risks to New Zealand as well as maximise any opportunities arising from a changing climate. The table below outlines some of the things we need to be aware of, and might need to take action on soon.

Examples of possible adaptation options

Sea-level rise
  • Become informed about what is happening to your coast now and what could happen to it in the future
  • Support dune care programmes in your area

Water resources and flooding
  • If you're in an area where water supply is limited, and could become more limited under climate change, be proactive in developing household or farm water conservation measures
  • Be aware of flood risks when buying or developing property
  • Support the protection and enhancement of lakes, rivers and wetland areas in your region
  • Incorporate wider use of water-efficient saving devices in your household/business

Higher temperatures
  • Design buildings with balconies, shading and efficient cooling systems including wider use of natural ventilation
  • Incorporate passive solar design and insulation into houses - this reduces the need for heating in winter and air-conditioning in summer

Agriculture and land management
  • Use practices that improve the soil, conserve water, and decrease wind and water erosion, and be watchful for any pests that you may not have observed before
  • Plant trees in erosion-prone and marginal farm land
  • Support the ongoing development of sustainable land management practices
  • Farmers may have to store more supplementary feed for their livestock if the climate becomes more variable

For more information see:

Last updated: 20 March 2008