This working paper aims to address conceptual shortfalls in understanding the drivers and characteristics of maladaptation, in order to provide a framework for identifying maladaptation.

It argues that climate change adaptation receives a great deal of attention in policy and academic communities, but has yet to be fully explored in practical and conceptual terms. It also highlights a lack of consensus around maladatpation's definition and application.

The paper outlines five areas of conceptual clarity which it is argued are needed to understand and evaluate maladaptation. A framework is presented for assessment of adaptation strategies which clarify between adaptation outcomes. A number of ‘symptoms’ that can act as early warning for maladaptive outcomes are also identified.

[Adapted from source]