This report demonstrates how taking steps now to ensure that buildings and construction activities in the Pacific can better withstand climate change-related events will reduce impacts in future years. It is intended for policymakers who are considering incorporating climate adaptation activities into infrastructure development.
The publication suggests that policy makers must change their practices and decision-making frameworks through the following five methods:
selecting strategies that yield benefits even in the absence of climate change;
favouring reversible and flexible options;
buying ‘‘safety margins’’ in new investments;
promoting strategies focused on institutions, policies and behaviour change; and
reducing decision time horizons.
The report is part of the World Bank's Pacific Possible series looking at potentially transformative opportunities for Pacific Island countries that warrant further research, understanding and policy action.