The dual approach to climate change adaptation in official development assistance

Abstract

ABSTRACT A dual approach is an effective method for formulating climate change adaptation measures. It combines both a top-down approach, whereby plans are formulated based on climate change projections, and a bottom-up approach, in which plans are formulated based on the situation in the target region. I analyse Japan’s advanced measures and a development case in Timor-Leste, where some level of adaptation effectiveness is expected. In Timor-Leste, the inadequacy of scientific data makes the top-down approach difficult, but the bottom-up approach based on thorough field surveys can promote climate-resilient development which can be expected to have high adaptation effects in such circumstances. To achieve this, it is necessary to complement scientific data with available data, further strengthen the current system in which each actor thinks independently and works and collaborates with others, and train facilitators who can understand scientific data.