Knowledge Needs and Applications in Urban Climate Adaptation

Cities are increasingly aware of the importance of preparing for the impacts of climate change. Although an emphasis often is placed on the need for better climate data and the centrality of climate assessments to guide adaptation initiatives, studies of the information preferences and planning approaches of cities are limited. This paper draws on a large-scale systematic survey to understand what motivates cities to initiate adaptation and to review what processes they are following and challenges they face. The paper concludes by looking at the ways in which different types of scientific, professional, and local knowledge can support adaptation planning and implementation.