A RESEARCH AGENDA Adaptation Research Programs and Funding

This paper presents a proposed research program and activities to assist transportation agencies, owners and users to adapt to climate change as outlined in (but not limited to) Transportation Research Board (TRB) Special Report 290: Potential Impacts of Climate Change on U.S. Transportation. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) defines adaptation as “an adjustment in natural or human systems in response to actual or expected climatic stimuli or their effects, which moderates harm or exploits beneficial opportunities. Adaptation activities can be technological (such as increased sea defenses), policy-based (such as improved risk management), behavioral (such as the sparing use of water in times of drought) or managerial (such as improved forest management)”. A review of global initiatives, research in Australia, the European Union, New Zealand and the United Kingdom reveals a rich body of experience, guides, assessment tools and case studies of adaptation options. Recent research in the United States by foundations, federal, state and local government also provides a base of experience. Common elements of the research programs are the importance of sharing information, engaging stakeholders, building capacity and providing advice