In a recent virtual workshop on 22nd January 2024, titled Representation of adaptation and maladaptation in integrated assessment models (IAMs) and attended by over 50 online participants, critical discussions unfolded about the integration of climate impacts and adaptation strategies in integrated assessment modelling. Chaired by Prof. Detlef van Vuuren, the event delved into recent and forthcoming efforts to improve climate scenario development and provide better mitigation, impacts and adaptation scenarios for stakeholders.

Surveying the audience, which included members of the European Commission’s DG-Clima and the Joint Research Center, revealed significant concerns about climate impacts, particularly regarding heat stress and biodiversity loss. Incorporating the vulnerability of socioeconomic and natural systems, and the limits and costs of adaptation, were key discussion points. The workshop showcased insights from Horizon projects like NAVIGATE, PRISMA, SPARCCLE, and ACCREU, and aimed to align expectations and needs for further climate change adaptation research. The event, co-organised by PBL and Bruegel, and featuring speakers from IIASA and Utrecht University, received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme.

Speakers:

• Marina Andrijevic, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis
• Edward Byers, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis
• Kai-Ivar van der Wijst, Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University