Synergies and conflicts between mitigation and adaptation

Historically, climate change adaptation and mitigation have generally been treated separately, both in policy and in research. Mitigation has been the highest priority and has received the most attention, often driven by national and international policy commitments to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases.

This brief lists some important win-wins, conflicts and trade-offs between mitigation and adaptation policy objectives, both in Scotland and internationally. These examples highlight potential positive outcomes for Scottish adaptation and mitigation policies.