French Forum on Climate Adaptation Highlights Regional Action

The Forum national français Adaptation au changement climatique au service des territoires, co-organised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Research and the Ministry of Ecological Transition, Energy, Climate, and Risk Prevention, brought together the French territories involved or interested in the Mission. The goal of the forum was to provide territories with relevant information about the Mission and tools and for them to exchange their experience with peers and provide feedback on their needs and challenges regarding adaptation.

France showcased its third National Climate Change Adaptation Plan (PNACC 3), currently under public consultation. The plan emphasises strategic preparation for a +4°C warming scenario, prioritising the protection of populations, support for stakeholders, and preservation of natural heritage. Inspired by the EU Mission on Adaptation, the French Mission Adaptation will support 100 French territories to become climate resilient.

The forum highlighted innovative tools like Météo-France’s Climadiag Commune and Climadiag Agriculture, which deliver tailored climate data to guide local planning. ADEME also presented its TACCT methodology, which has supported over 150 communities in developing transformative adaptation strategies.

Regional adaptation initiatives supported by Mission Adaptation-funded projects, including MIP4Adapt, CLIMAAX, and P2R, were also showcased, reflecting the EU Mission’s contribution to strengthening local efforts.

While participants celebrated progress, challenges were acknowledged in aligning EU and national methodologies and integrating adaptation into governance frameworks. The forum concluded with calls for enhanced tools, cross-sector collaboration, and robust institutional support, underscoring the indispensable role of regional actors in achieving transformative climate adaptation.

Next steps will focus on bridging EU and national efforts, improving local access to resources, and fostering collective action to bolster resilience across France.