Why adapt

Scotland’s climate is already changing. Over the last century temperatures have increased, sea levels have risen and rainfall patterns have changed, with increased seasonality and more heavy downpours. These changes are projected to continue and intensify over the coming decades. We can expect future changes in climate to be far greater than anything we have seen in the past.

These changes are already impacting people and places across Scotland. Taking early action to adapt will help increase resilience and reduce risks. The Climate Change (Scotland) Act also places a legal duty on many organisations to adapt.

 Scotland's Climate Change Adaptation Programme

This Scottish Climate Change Adaptation Programme sets out the Scottish Government’s adaptation objectives.

Read the Scottish Climate Change Adaptation Programme

Read about the UK Climate Change Risk Assessment