Climate Policy Processes, Local Institutions, and Adaptation Actions : Mechanisms of Translation and Influence

This paper focuses on the experience of
the national-level adaptation planning efforts and the
lessons that can be derived for more effective adaptation
from an examination of local governance of development and
natural resources. After examining national level adaptation
plans, particularly the NAPAs (National Adaptation
Programmes of Action), the paper analyzes the range of
institutional instruments and relationships visible in
contemporary decentralization reforms. The analysis derives
four important lessons for adaptation planning, with special
attention to the articulation between local and national
level adaptation processes. The paper underlines: a) the
diversity of local institutions; b) adaptation strategies,
and identifies factors that promote; c) greater
accountability; and d) greater equity in national/local relationships.