This applied policy oriented research aims to contribute to implementation of appropriate adaptation for climate change in developing countries. With focus on food production and mitigation of natural disasters, the research aims to provide a framework for implementation of adaptation for climate change. With case studies in four Asian countries: Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines, and through joint programs with institutions in those countries, it aims to build a modeling system comprising of a weather forecast model and impact assessment models to assess impacts at local scale. The project would analyze several feasible adaptation measures to minimise the risks of damages and losses caused by climate change and propose approaches to identify optimal strategies. In the long-term, it aims to improve capability to mainstream adaptation measures in national development plans.

This project is to carry out case studies in new frontier field of designing adaptation strategies. This requires the following

1. Ability to assess local impacts due to climate change
2. Propose several remedial measures
3. Assess the appropriateness of these measures in relation to national development plans so that they can be mainstreamed.

Initially, flood risk reduction and responses to rice yield change will be proposed as focus areas. To carry out this research following actions are required:

1. Downscaling future climate forecasts to local conditions.
2. Coupling weather forecasts to flood and rice yield models set up for target areas.
3. Assess changes from baseline information and propose appropriate actions.
4. Evaluate the relative benefits of proposed actions in relation to national development programs.

UNU with partners has developed a state-of-art flood inundation and an impact assessment modeling system, used the popular Local Area Model ,WRF, to suit specific conditions by modifying and extending as well as providing automated forecasting. Case studies on crop yield models with appropriate calibration based on field monitoring also are available to guide future studies.

The full report on Comparative Studies on Development Strategies considering Impacts of Adaptation to Climate Change.