Does the green paper place the right urgency and emphasis on the matter of adaptation in Europe?
The Green Paper makes a credible case for adaptation and this is largely based on the Stern report (2007). However, recent research suggests that previously unstudied components of the climate system may be driving change at a faster rate than either IPCC or Stern estimate, adding greater urgency to the need for early action. Additionally, the scale of the changes needed in many sectors should be made clearer as these will often be fundamental and a radical departure from existing practices. The timescale from the commencement to the implementation of an adaptation measure should not be underestimated and further highlights the need for early action. A stronger case needs to be made for demonstrating the economic value of investing in the protection of biodiversity and ecosystems if a case is to be made for maintaining the services upon which societies and economies ultimately depend. 5. What should be the different roles of EU, national, regional, local authorities and the private sec
