New Zealanders will see increasing impacts of climate change for a while yet – so it’s important for communities to plan to adapt now.
The first step is doing a risk assessment. This will be easier for local government and communities with the release of a Ministry for the Environment’s climate change risk assessment guide.
The guide has been created by external risk specialists in close consultation with a local government working group and a Māori caucus and panel.
It has a standard approach to local risk assessments and supports decision-making on adaptation with flexibility for reflecting local values. It is broadly consistent with the National Climate Change Risk Assessment Framework which is helping the Government prioritise action.
There will be support for local government staff and elected representatives to take up the guide and feed back on it. Support will initially be delivered via a summary document and three webinars.
This is the first version of the guide and we are keen for feedback and content for case studies. If you can help, please get in touch by emailing adaptation@mfe.govt.nz