ADAPTATION

CARE takes a people-centred approach to adaptation. This entails practical strategies to reduce disaster risks, as well as risks associated with less predictable rainfall, shifting disease vectors, etc. CARE works with local organisations to promote more resilient livelihoods (through agricultural innovations, the revitalisation of traditional knowledge and diversification) and tackle the underlying causes of vulnerability (through capacity development, social mobilization and advocacy).

In pursuit of these goals, CARE is creating new conceptual models and participatory methodologies. For example, our Climate Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment tool helps stakeholders:

• Identify especially vulnerable regions and communities
  
• Understand the consequences of climate change for different social groups within these communities
  
• Design projects that provide immediate benefits and build adaptive capacity for further climate change

CARE is building on its experience carrying out adaptation projects by developing regional "learning programs." CARE's learning programs function as incubators and test-beds for ground-breaking ways to design, implement, monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of adaptation projects. They also demonstrate the complementary roles that national government, local authorities and civil society can play in helping highly vulnerable people adapt to the impacts of climate change.