Abstract

From the Introduction:

This book is one of the main contributions of the Commission on Ecosystem Management (CEM) of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to the international discussions on how we should address climate change impacts on natural and human systems, including ecosystems and the services they provide to society and communities. It was produced through contributions of CEM members worldwide and those from other scientists with key experience in research on, and implementation of climate change adaptation measures. Eleven case studies were selected by a team of editors, covering different ecosystems and regions around the world. The criteria for selection included the availability of an impact assessment of climate change on local communities, or biodiversity at ecosystem level, a clear analysis of the climate change vulnerability of ecosystems and human communities, a proposal for adaptation measures or set of actions being implemented – all based on the concept of ecosystem management – and, ultimately, an analysis of implementation results with future prospects.