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In many cases, policies are better suited to existing
(or static) conditions rather than preparing for
future changes. Although the situation varies greatly
between countries, some sectors represent positive
exceptions with policies that contain forward-looking
elements for adaptation. Policies pertaining to water
and flood management, forests and biodiversity, and
energy appear to be the most effective in this regard.
Several good examples of adaptation in action exist
within the region that can be replicated, including
trans boundary flood and water management, urban
adaptation initiatives, early drought monitoring, and
heat wave early warning systems.
The countries of Western Balkans need to improve
their existing policy frameworks in order to address
current and future adaptation needs, given the
existing and future vulnerability of the region to
climate change. Besides the fact that EU standards
are a requirement in some cases, the EU integration
process presents an opportunity, as well as sources of
good examples, to further improve and harmonize
the policies towards adaptation goals. One good
example is the EU Floods Directive, which takes
into account future climate impacts and provisions
for regular methodological updates and revisions
according to the latest scientific information on
climate change. The EU Water Framework Directive
is another example, which supports an integrated
approach to water and drought risk management.
At the same time, a strongermountain focus is needed
for adaptation policies, as most existing policies in the
Western Balkan countries fail to address mountain
issues specifically, with only a few exceptions (e.g.
winter tourism). Essential to this task is the design,
collection and monitoring of mountain-specific data
on climate change trends and risks.
Sub-regional coordination and transnational
synergies should be strongly promoted, with a specific
focus on mountain environments. Processes such as
the Dinaric Arc Initiative could be strengthened and
built upon. Policy-makers should consider a sub-
regional approach to investments (including climate-
proof measures) in prevention and preparedness in
various sectors to avoid duplications and improve
coordination. Sub-regional adaptation strategies
and plans would thus further ensure sustainability at
national level.