Kauer, C. (2018). Assessment of climate change adaptation policies in the danube river basin [Master Thesis, Technische Universität Wien; Diplomatische Akademie Wien]. reposiTUm. https://doi.org/10.34726/hss.2018.57101
Climate Change; Adaptation; Danube River Basin; Policy Assessment
de
Climate Change; Adaptation; Danube River Basin; Policy Assessment
en
Abstract:
Adaptation to Climate Change is one of the key challenges humankind has to face. In this regard, the management of freshwater resources is vital as water is indispensable for all forms of life. This thesis assesses Climate Change adaptation policies in the Danube River Basin (DRB), the most international river basin in the world. For the purpose of the analysis of policies, a method has been developed to systematically assess and compare various policies on a transboundary and national level. First, the current and future changes attributable to Climate Change on the hydrological cycle and consequently on the anthroposphere are assessed by a comprehensive literature review. Second, measures on adaptation from selected transboundary and national policies are categorized according to the effect and type of measure followed by a comparison to the proposed policy lists by Mauser et al. (2012, 2018) which can be seen as exhaustive. The results regarding the policy development stage are set into relation with the findings from climate science and are examined regarding adequacy. This thesis concludes that policies on Climate Change adaptation are very well developed in the DRB. Despite the complexity arising from different national and transboundary actors, the common framework for the DRB functions well. Hence, concerning the field of Climate Change adaptation, the policy framework of the DRB can serve as a role model for other transboundary river basins. It is crucial that the adaptation policy process remains open and flexible as new scientific evidence will be continuously available. Moreover, there is need for further research on the actual implementation of adaptation policies in the DRB.