Co-creating adaptation solutions
A critical review of participatory instruments in climate change adaptation laws and policies
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 13129246 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Nadejda Komendantova (0000-0003-2568-6179, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis), Dmitry Erokhin (0000-0002-5191-0579, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis, corresponding author), Anna Scolobig (0000-0003-3957-9745, University of Geneva), Enora Bruley (0000-0003-3416-1868, University of Geneva), Marina Mattera (0000-0002-3995-9572, CMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change), Madeline Baldelli (0009-0008-5672-6771, CMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Volume | 28 |
| Pages | 100326-100326 |
| Publication date | 2026-03-19 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Earth System Governance (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 2589-8116 • E-ISSN: 2589-8116 |
| Publisher | Elsevier BV (PUBLISHER) |
| DOI | 10.1016/j.esg.2026.100326 |
| OpenAlex | W7139055031 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 1 |
| References cited | 34 |
Amid growing climate risks and evolving adaptation-mitigation dynamics, this study analyzes how participatory instruments are integrated into climate change adaptation laws and policies. Reviewing legal and policy documents from the EU, Germany, and Spain since 2020, and using Arnstein's ladder of citizen participation to assess participation levels ranging from tokenistic consultation to partnership, the study identifies common gaps in accessibility, communication, capacity building, feedback, funding, and coordination. Insights from a co-creation workshop with experts further support these findings. Although innovative instruments have been introduced, most practices remain confined to mid-level participation. The study concludes with policy recommendations aimed at bridging the gap between participatory rhetoric and practice. The recommendations advocate for decentralization, diversified communication, enhanced capacity building, institutionalized accountability, sustainable funding, and improved multi-level coordination. Implementing these changes will be critical to transform adaptation laws and policies into genuine co-production platforms for addressing climate change
Adaptation (eye · Citizen journalism · Climate change · Climate change adaptation · Government (linguistics · Climate Change, Adaptation, Migration · Collaborative and Sustainable Housing Initiatives · Sustainability and Climate Change Governance
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| Citations per year | 1 |
|---|---|
| Citation span | 2026 - 2026 (1) |
| Highly cited | No |