Co-creating adaptation solutions: A critical review of participatory instruments in climate change adaptation laws and policies

Komendantova, N. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2568-6179, Erokhin, D. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5191-0579, Scolobig, A., Bruley, E., Mattera, M., & Baldelli, M. (2026). Co-creating adaptation solutions: A critical review of participatory instruments in climate change adaptation laws and policies. Earth System Governance 28 e100326. 10.1016/j.esg.2026.100326.

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Project: A Gathering place to cO-design and co-cReate Adaptation (AGORA, HE 101093921)

Abstract

Amid growing climate risks and evolving adaptation-mitigation dynamics, this study analyzes how participatory instruments are integrated into climate change adaptation laws and policies. Reviewing legal and policy documents from the EU, Germany, and Spain since 2020, and using Arnstein's ladder of citizen participation to assess participation levels ranging from tokenistic consultation to partnership, the study identifies common gaps in accessibility, communication, capacity building, feedback, funding, and coordination. Insights from a co-creation workshop with experts further support these findings. Although innovative instruments have been introduced, most practices remain confined to mid-level participation. The study concludes with policy recommendations aimed at bridging the gap between participatory rhetoric and practice. The recommendations advocate for decentralization, diversified communication, enhanced capacity building, institutionalized accountability, sustainable funding, and improved multi-level coordination. Implementing these changes will be critical to transform adaptation laws and policies into genuine co-production platforms for addressing climate change.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: Climate change adaptation, Co-production, Adaptation governance, Participatory instruments, Stakeholder engagement, Climate policy
Research Programs: Advancing Systems Analysis (ASA)
Advancing Systems Analysis (ASA) > Cooperation and Transformative Governance (CAT)
Depositing User: Luke Kirwan
Date Deposited: 19 Mar 2026 08:16
Last Modified: 19 Mar 2026 08:16
URI: https://pure.iiasa.ac.at/21398

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