underadaptation

Underadaptation is a term used in climate change adaptation to describe a situation in which adaptation efforts are insufficient to reduce vulnerability to climate-related risks. It occurs when measures do not fully address exposure, sensitivity, or adaptive capacity, leaving communities or systems more at risk than necessary. Underadaptation is often contrasted with non-adaptation (no action) and maladaptation (actions that increase vulnerability or produce negative side effects).

Causes of underadaptation include financial constraints, inadequate governance or institutional capacity, and limited access to relevant data or forecasting. Planning horizons that are too short, misaligned risk perceptions, and competing policy priorities can also contribute. Uncertainty about climate projections and the benefits of adaptation can bias decisions toward preserving the status quo. Social inequalities and fragmented institutions may prevent inclusion of vulnerable groups in adaptation planning, sustaining underadaptation.

Examples appear across sectors. In agriculture, underadaptation may involve continuing climate-sensitive crops without diversification or irrigation. In urban contexts, infrastructure may not be designed for future heat extremes or flood events, resulting in insufficient cooling, drainage, or flood defenses. In water management, demand management and storage investments may lag behind increasing variability and demand.

Assessment typically relies on vulnerability or risk analyses, scenario planning, and cost-benefit comparisons to targets for risk reduction. Policy responses aim to counter underadaptation through proactive planning, governance reforms, and investments that enhance resilience while delivering co-benefits such as improved health, productivity, and equity. Effective countermeasures emphasize early action, flexible and learning-based approaches, and inclusive decision-making to raise adaptive capacity and close the gap between current measures and needed protection.