Bridging flood risk management and climate change adaptation : policy and practice in Sweden

Abstract

N/A ; In facing one of the largest environmental challenges in human history, climate change, it has become increasingly obvious that we cannot avoid its consequences, but need to find ways in adapting to them. One predicted change lies in the increased risk of floods. This thesis investigates how adaptation to this particular change is developing in western Sweden. Based on policy documents and interviews with policy-makers on the national, regional and local level, it aims to shine light upon how climate change adaptation is integrated in flood management. The research focus lies on the division of responsibilities and the level of policy integration currently achieved, and it identifies the motivating factors that have induced adaptation in flood protection. The thesis also pays attention to the EU Floods Directive, in particular to how it addresses climate change adaptation, and how it influences Swedish flood management. The results show that the main responsibility for flood protection in Sweden lies with the municipalities, and that national policies on the topic are still weak. Climate change adaptation is high on the agendas of regional authorities, which has contributed to a diverse range of adaptation measures on the local level. Motivation to integration can be ascribed to eye-opening events, an undisputed perception of scientific findings about climate change vulnerabilities, and to the efforts of particularly engaged individuals. The implementation of the EU Floods Directive instigated the Swedish legislation and a new ordinance was adopted, but it does not have any direct influence on the municipalities and has therefore not yet significantly changed flood management practices in Sweden. Overall, the thesis adds to the understanding of how adaptation to climate change of a certain policy area is executed across scales, from the EU to municipal levels, and it shows where there is still room for policy improvement. ; submitted by: Sköld Palmquist, Alexandra ; Universität für Bodenkultur Wien, Masterarbeit, 2016 ; (VLID)1935600