Climate change vulnerability and impacts assessment in a Mediterranean region for adaptation purposes

Mediterranean region is recognized as an hot spot for negative effects due to climate change. The region is already experiencing an increase in frequency and intensity of extreme weather events (i.e. drought conditions, fire, floods, and heat waves) and climate projections indicate a general exacerbation of such phenomena.

This work, performed in the framework of the Sardinia Region Adaptation Strategy to Climate Change and in collaboration with the LIFE Project Master-ADAPT, analyzed the impacts and the vulnerability to climate change in the Sardinia region (Italy) for three sectors: agricultural-forestry sector, the inland water systems, and the hydrogeological component.

The analysis used the innovative approach of developing "Impact Chains” per each sector and analyzed risk. A selection of indicators has been used (at municipality level) as proxy to assess climate hazard (for past and future conditions) and the exposure, sensitivity and adaptation capacity of the Region. This analysis represents the knowledge base required by local administrations for developing adaptation policies to climate change.

Results allowed to better understand climate vulnerability for the territory, and to guide the process of identifying adaptation objectives and options to face climate risk for each sector. Adaptation to climate change is a priority and local administrations need to work towards climate adaptation objectives and policies in order to strengthen climate resilience, reduce negative impacts due to climate change, and enable more effective management opportunities.