Outlook on Climate Change Adaptation in the Western Balkan Mountains

In many cases, policies are better suited to existing (or static) conditions rather than preparing for future changes. Although the situation varies greatly between countries, some sectors represent positive exceptions with policies that contain forward-looking elements for adaptation. Policies pertaining to water and flood management, forests and biodiversity, and energy appear to be the most effective in this regard. Several good examples of adaptation in action exist within the region that can be replicated, including trans boundary flood and water management, urban adaptation initiatives, early drought monitoring, and heat wave early warning systems. The countries of Western Balkans need to improve their existing policy frameworks in order to address current and future adaptation needs, given the existing and future vulnerability of the region to climate change. Besides the fact that EU standards are a requirement in some cases, the EU integration process presents an opportunity, as well as sources of good examples, to further improve and harmonize the policies towards adaptation goals. One good example is the EU Floods Directive, which takes into account future climate impacts and provisions for regular methodological updates and revisions according to the latest scientific information on climate change. The EU Water Framework Directive is another example, which supports an integrated approach to water and drought risk management. At the same time, a strongermountain focus is needed for adaptation policies, as most existing policies in the

Western Balkan countries fail to address mountain issues specifically, with only a few exceptions (e.g. winter tourism). Essential to this task is the design, collection and monitoring of mountain-specific data on climate change trends and risks. Sub-regional coordination and transnational synergies should be strongly promoted, with a specific focus on mountain environments. Processes such as the Dinaric Arc Initiative could be strengthened and built upon. Policy-makers should consider a sub- regional approach to investments (including climate- proof measures) in prevention and preparedness in various sectors to avoid duplications and improve coordination. Sub-regional adaptation strategies and plans would thus further ensure sustainability at national level.

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