Climate change mitigation addresses the causes of climate change by limiting the enhanced greenhouse effect, whereas climate change adaptation reduces the harmful effects of climate change on ecosystems and societies. Both approaches are necessary and are core content for SL and HL in ESS subtopic 6.3.
How the Two Approaches Work
Anthropogenic emissions increase atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases, strengthening the enhanced greenhouse effect. Mitigation intervenes earlier in this system by reducing emissions or increasing carbon sequestration, thereby limiting the magnitude of future climate change.
Adaptation accepts that some climate change is already occurring or unavoidable. It changes ecological or social systems to reduce vulnerability, increase resilience, and, where possible, maximize positive consequences.
| Feature | Mitigation | Adaptation |
|---|---|---|
| Main aim | Reduce the causes of climate change | Reduce harm from climate-change impacts |
| Position in the system | Acts on greenhouse gas sources and carbon sinks | Acts on exposed ecosystems and societies |
| Examples | Renewable energy, energy efficiency, reforestation and reduced deforestation | Sea walls, drought-resistant crops, flood-warning systems and water conservation |
| Typical scale | Often requires national and international cooperation | Often designed for local or regional conditions |
| Timing of benefits | Benefits may take decades to become evident | Benefits may be immediate or short term |
For example, Costa Rica's forest restoration increases carbon storage and therefore contributes to mitigation. The Netherlands' Delta Programme strengthens flood protection and water management, making it primarily an adaptation strategy.
A common misconception is that adaptation stops climate change. It does not: adaptation manages consequences, while mitigation limits the underlying disturbance. Adaptation also raises environmental justice questions because poorer communities are often more vulnerable yet have fewer financial and technological resources to adapt.
Exam Technique
For a distinguish question, state the cause-versus-impact difference directly and give one example of each. For discuss or evaluate, consider effectiveness, cost, timescale, stakeholder perspectives and equity, then reach a supported conclusion that effective climate policy requires both mitigation and adaptation.