Impacts of climate change are magnified in cities, where over half of the world’s population lives. European cities are identified as hotspots for multiple risks from heat, floods and droughts. While many cities are taking adaptation action, the rate and scale of implementation are not sufficient to address the climate change impacts on human health, critical infrastructure and livelihoods. Cities in general are affected because of high population and economic activities. Coastal cities are disproportionately at risk due to rising sea levels and coastal erosion. However, the concentration of construction activities and socio-economic developments in coastal cities offer opportunities to implement climate adaptation and mitigation policy.
Actions targeting individual sectors or risks, and prioritizing short-term gains, often lead to long-term adverse effects on ecosystems and people. Solutions based on an integrated and inclusive approach can reduce risks and enable climate-resilient development. Therefore, sustainable development and the avoidance of maladaptation require integrated approaches to adaptation and mitigation.

https://www.deltares.nl/en/news/new-ipcc-report-effects-of-climate-change-more-serious-than-thought-time-is-short-for-effective-adaptation/

https://www.ipcc.ch/report/sixth-assessment-report-working-group-ii/