Adapting to Heatwaves: Reframing, Understanding, and Translating Strategies from India to the EU

Abstract

Policy HighlightsTo achieve the recommendation stated in the title, we propose the following: Adaptation should be reframed as situated, relational, and long-term processes within socio-ecological systems to maximise the value of nature-oriented, place-based, and community-driven strategies. Interdisciplinary approaches integrating STEM and SSH perspectives provide better understanding of adaptation strategies and lead to innovative knowledge for guiding adaptation actions. Adaptation policies in the EU should draw upon the Global South given their long history of adaptation to extreme temperatures. Translating learning possibilities requires intercultural and intergeographical tailoring of policy according to local options, needs, and resources, and not just mere knowledge transfer. To foster mutually beneficial global interrelations, the EU should emphasise opportunities for social and epistemic justice, and interconnectedness.