Global sea levels are rising at an accelerated rate which puts low elevation infrastructure in coastal areas at growing risk. Thermo-electric low-lying power plants and generation infrastructure (located near water bodies for cooling), water treatment plants, and offshore wind turbines are particularly exposed to coastal flooding and storm surge risks. Coastal flooding on the road and rail network can have downstream impacts on businesses and manufacturing, and a risk of ‘cutting-off’ communities in isolated regions.
The potentially emission-intensive construction and improvement of protective structures such as sea walls, storm surge barriers, dykes and dams is necessary, but also the relocation of assets must be considered, especially to protect sensitive oceanic ecosystems – all under the condition that the declining emissions budget is not exceeded.
In order to ensure sufficient supply through critical infrastructures and to compensate for possible failures, not only investments must be made, but in particular a much more responsible use of finite goods such as energy and resources is needed. This concerns us all.
Policymakers and administrators play a key role in climate adaptation, but success depends on aligning strategies with realistic institutional, governance, and budgetary conditions. Strong institutions, cross-sector and cross-department collaboration, and enforceable policies support resilience and climate neutrality. Awareness, clear governance, and financial resources are essential but not sufficient—political will and broad stakeholder engagement are crucial. Transparent, evidence-based decision-making helps overcome barriers. Tools like the Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan (SECAP) align – if available – local strategies with broader goals. Effective climate action requires administrators to coordinate efforts across departments and sectors. Ultimately, realistic assessments of local capacities determine feasibility and impact.
KNOWING provides policymakers and administrators with the tools and insights to develop effective climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, ensuring their region moves toward climate neutrality.
The KNOWING Follower Questionnaire integrates a capacity mapping to assess existing laws, regulations, institutions, and governance structures, helping decision-makers understand the feasibility of climate strategies in their specific context.
At the core of KNOWING’s methodology is an impact interaction model framework, which combines system dynamics with sectoral models to map complex interactions between climate risks, adaptation and mitigation measures. This framework simulates multiple sectors—including energy, mobility, land use, and urbanization—enabling a precise assessment of political decisions regarding their long-term ecological, economic, and social impacts.
KNOWING delivers actionable insights through a set of tailored services:
Science and education are key to climate adaptation, translating complex challenges into actionable insights. Beyond generating data, they must equip policymakers with practical solutions and necessary skills. Effective knowledge transfer requires clear communication through policy briefs, scenario analyses, and interactive platforms. Strong networks between researchers, policymakers, and practitioners enhance collaboration and best practices. Science helps simplify climate complexity using risk assessments and scenario planning. By fostering ambition and systemic change, it encourages bold climate strategies. Ultimately, science and education empower decision-makers to build a resilient, climate-neutral future.
KNOWING helps create livable, resilient cities and regions by ensuring that climate decisions are grounded in scientific knowledge. By providing tools and insights, the project supports communities in adapting to climate change while working towards long-term sustainability and climate neutrality.
At the core of KNOWING is the Impact Interaction Model Framework, which maps the complex relationships between climate risks, environmental changes, and adaptation and mitigation measures. This framework integrates climate science with stakeholder knowledge from policy, industry, academia, and civil society, ensuring that solutions are both scientifically sound and locally applicable.
KNOWING equips communities with evidence-based tools to actively participate in climate action:
Businesses and industries play a strategic role in climate adaptation, benefiting from resilience, innovation, and long-term competitiveness. Climate-resilient regions attract investors, skilled workers, and companies seeking stable environments. Clean Tech and sustainable industries offer major economic opportunities, positioning proactive companies ahead in evolving markets. Regulatory compliance, such as the EU’s CSRD, is becoming essential, giving sustainable businesses a competitive edge. Beyond compliance, sustainability enhances brand value, attracts talent, and improves work environments. Companies should see climate adaptation as a strategic advantage, not a burden. Collaboration with policymakers and researchers is key to future-proofing operations and driving systemic change.
Businesses play a strategic role in climate adaptation, benefiting from resilience, innovation, and long-term competitiveness. Climate-resilient regions attract investors, skilled workers, and companies seeking stable environments, making sustainability a core business advantage. The transition to a low-carbon economy presents major economic opportunities, especially in Clean Tech and sustainable industries. Companies that integrate sustainability into their strategies gain a competitive edge, while regulations like the EU’s CSRD make climate risk disclosures essential.
KNOWING provides tools to help companies navigate and leverage climate adaptation:
Climate adaptation is not just about policies and technologies—it is about how each individual understands, accepts, and responds to necessary climate measures in daily life. KNOWING equips people with science-based knowledge and practical tools to navigate climate risks, make informed decisions, and embrace sustainable change rather than resist it.
KNOWING’s Impact Interaction Model Framework helps individuals grasp the connections between climate risks, adaptation measures, and policy decisions. By integrating scientific insights with real-world experiences, the project supports individuals in understanding the necessity of climate measures and their long-term benefits.
KNOWING provides tailored tools to support personal acceptance and engagement in climate adaptation:
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