“…Such p o s s i b l e adaptations are based on experience, observation, and speculation about alternatives that might be created (Carter, 1996); they cover a wide range of types and take numerous forms (UNEP, 1998). For example, possible adaptive measures for health risks associated with c l imate change listed by Patz (1996) appear in Table 18-2. Similarly, in coastal zone studies, comprehensive lists of potential adaptation measures are presented; these adaptations include a wide array of engineering measures, improvements, or changes, including agricultural practices that are more flood-resistant; negotiating regional water-sharing agreements; providing efficient mechanisms for disaster management; developing desalination techniques; planting mangrove belts to provide flood protection; planting salt-tolerant varieties of v e getation; improving drainage facilities; establishing setback policies for new developments; developing food insurance schemes; devising flood early warning systems; and so forth (Al-Farouq and Huq, 1996;Jallow, 1996;Rijsberman and van Velzen, 1996;Teves et al, 1996;Mimura and Harasawa, 2000). In many other sectors and regions, arbitrary lists of p o ssible adaptations are common (Erda, 1996;Iglesias et al ., 1996).…”