Adaptation to climate change is a primary objective in Spain, as a result of our high vulnerability, but it is a very complex area of work, in which the public and private dimensions converge, where there are competencies, responsibilities and the need for coordination at all administrative levels and, in addition, where a multitude of sectors and agents interact.

In this context, the Conama Foundation has developed the project “Conama Local Adapta: Innovation Network in Adaptation to Climate Change”.

Based on the continuity of CONAMA’s climate change adaptation working group, constituted since 2014, new actors in local policy and strategic planning have been incorporated that, from synergistic action, generate an integrated and innovative approach to local strategies for adaptation to climate change. In this sense, private agents have been incorporated with whom the integration of market tools as drivers of business adaptation in the development of a circular and low-carbon economy that has a positive impact on urban management has been analysed.

Conama has brought together in this project a group of specialists and organizations that work for Spain to become a world leader in adaptation to climate change. The group, which will continue its work in the future, has produced a first report with a qualitative analysis based on a consultation with the main socio-economic agents involved and interested in adaptation to climate change. Among its findings, this report includes proposals on adaptation indicators. With the aim of raising awareness among cities, adaptation became themain theme of the Conama Local 2017: Cities connect naturally, held in November 2017 in Valencia. In this event, the presentation of the works was scheduled, in addition to a specific workshop and a thematic meeting with the provincial councils. Around Conama Local 2017, a communication has been woven that highlights the importance of adaptation and concludes with the edition of an informative video: Adapting is living.