Most ecological processes now show responses to anthropogenic climate change. In terrestrial, freshwater, and marine ecosystems, species are changing genetically, physiologically, morphologically, and phenologically and are shifting their distributions, which affects food webs and results in new interactions. Disruptions scale from the gene to the ecosystem and have documented consequences for people, including unpredictable fisheries and crop yields, loss of genetic diversity in wild crop varieties, and increasing impacts of pests and diseases. In addition to the more easily observed changes, such as shifts in flowering phenology, we argue that many hidden dynamics, such as genetic changes, are also taking place. Understanding shifts in ecological processes can guide human adaptation strategies. In addition to reducing greenhouse gases, climate action and policy must therefore focus equally on strategies that safeguard biodiversity and ecosystems.
- Ecosystem-based Adaptation implies the strengthening of natural systems to cushion the impacts of climate change.
- South-South cooperation is a new dimension of international cooperation to adapt to increasing climate change impacts in developing countries.
- To build an evidence base for Ecosystem-based Adaptation across different regions and ecosystems, three highly vulnerable developing countries have been identified to implement...
- EbA South is a partner of UNEP-REGATTA's initiative EbA Community of Practice. Follow our thematic modules and webinars!
