Preparing contingency plans to mitigate effects of climate change

Once seen as a problem for future generations, global warning is now recognized by governments and international business as likely to affect projects already underway.

This strategy features in the framework of Agenda 21 as formulated at UNCED (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), now coordinated by the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development and implemented through national and local authorities.

Agenda 21 recommends the design and implementation of rational response strategies based on precautionary and anticipatory approaches, in order to address the environmental, social and economic impact of climate change and sea-level rise, and the preparation of appropriate contingency plans.