What are climate mitigation and adaptation?

The impacts of climate change are already evident in various locations worldwide. From rising sea levels to shifts in weather patterns, climate change influences ecosystems, freshwater resources and human well-being.
solar panels and wind turbines in an energy plant

While avoiding climate change entirely may not be possible, we can mitigate its most severe repercussions by substantially reducing the release of heat-trapping gases into the atmosphere.

Climate mitigation and adaptation are two key strategies that work together to address climate change to address its catastrophic effects.

While avoiding climate change entirely may not be possible, we can mitigate its most severe repercussions by substantially reducing the release of heat-trapping gases into the atmosphere.

Climate mitigation and adaptation are two key strategies that work together to address climate change to address its catastrophic effects.

Climate mitigation refers to efforts to reduce or prevent the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere. The primary goal of mitigation is to minimise the extent and pace of climate change by curbing the drivers of global warming. For instance, GHD has actively promoted renewable energy solutions by providing engineering and advisory services for large-scale wind, solar and hydroelectric projects. By enabling the transition to clean energy sources, we contribute to mitigating climate change impacts.

Climate adaptation

Climate adaptation involves actions that support communities and ecosystems to adjust to climate change’s present and future impacts, focusing on reducing vulnerability and enhancing resilience to climate-related risks.

Recognising the importance of adapting to the changing climate, GHD strongly emphasises resilience-building measures. We offer specialised consulting services to help clients identify climate-related risks and develop robust adaptation strategies.

Our global network of experts assists in assessing vulnerabilities in infrastructure, water management systems and coastal areas, among others. By leveraging cutting-edge tools and expertise, we can support the design and implementation of climate-resilient solutions. This includes incorporating climate considerations into infrastructure design, implementing innovative water management techniques and developing strategies to safeguard coastal communities from the impacts of sea-level rise and extreme weather events.

GHD’s commitment to climate mitigation and adaptation

Addressing climate change requires collaborative efforts, and we actively engage with stakeholders, including governments, communities and industry partners, to foster dialogue, share knowledge and drive collective action. Through this, we contribute to a broader and more impactful response to the challenges brought on by climate change.

Learn more about our commitment to climate mitigation and adaptation with a preview of some of our global projects:

Articles referenced

Vijaya Venkata Raman et al. 2012, 'A review of climate change, mitigation and adaptation', In Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, retrieved May 24, 2023, from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S136403211100459X