Adapting to Climate Change in Sweden: National Policy Development and Adaptation Measures in Västra Götaland

Abstract

Located in south-western Sweden, the Vastra Gotaland region is often seen as one of the areas of the country most vulnerable to flooding and erosion, and will be highly impacted by flooding and sea level rise as a result of climate change. Drawing upon a literature study and semi-structured interviews with actors in climate policy, this chapter reviews the development of adaptation policy in Sweden. The chapter focuses particularly on the Commission on Climate and Vulnerability (2007) and a government bill An Integrated Climate and Energy Policy: Climate (2009) in which suggestions by the Commission were included. The chapter describes the development of adaptation policy and measures on the regional and local levels in Vastra Gotaland and within select municipalities. The study illustrates the national distribution of responsibility through which municipalities are given a large role in integrating adaptation measures, and describes some of the differentiated responses such responsibilities may elicit on the local level.