This chapter addresses why the local level matters for adaptation. It then discusses linking local adaptation to the national, sectoral and project levels. It closes with a discussion of the roles donors play at the local level.

This chapter discusses key similarities between urban and rural settings and the implications for adaptation. In particular, it looks at the fact that adaptation is already happening; it underscores the strong link between poverty alleviation and adaptation; it states the need for “good development” and “good governance”; and it examines the roles, comparative advantages and limitations of local governments, the role of communities and civil society as well as the role of the private sector. Finally, it discusses the key differences between rural and urban settings and their implications for adaptation.

This chapter identifies elements for successful integration of climate change adaptation at the local level, which include: broad and sustained engagement and participation with local stakeholders; awareness-raising and targeted messaging on climate change; gathering and using appropriate information; and reconciling time horizons. It looks at the four entry points: (i) development planning processes by local governments; (ii) adjusting local regulatory and service provision frameworks; (iii) adjustment of accountability mechanisms; and (iv) private sector and civil society processes.

This chapter sets out the challenges with regard to integrating adaptation into development at the local level and then outlines priority actions for national governments in supporting local adaptation. These priority actions include: (i) collect and provide information for climate change adaptation; (ii) provide human, financial, technical resources and services to support local adaptation; (iii) provide social protection; and (iv) ensure a supportive policy and institutional framework. The chapter also identifies priority actions for donors. These include: (i) review sectoral priorities in light of climate change; (ii) explore different options for channelling funds and engage stakeholders in building local adaptive capacity; (iii) support decentralisation processes that transfer authority to elected local governments; (iv) enhance local government capacity to take up the responsibilities afforded by decentralisation.