On November 4, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) released a report on finance for adaptation, meaning efforts to prepare for the effects of climate change and reduce the damage it causes.
According to the report, at last year's COP30 countries agreed on an aim to at least triple adaptation finance by 2035. Reaching it would require expanding finance to USD 85 to 120 billion a year by 2035. Funds provided from developed to developing countries in 2024 were reported at USD 28.2 to 31.7 billion, an increase of only USD 1 billion over 2023.
The report also refers to "loss and damage" that can occur when adaptation and emissions reductions fall short, and says that expanding support can improve the situation of developing countries with low emissions that are affected by damage. UNEP called increased support an essential investment for managing climate risks.
Key points
- An aim to at least triple adaptation finance by 2035 (agreed at COP30)
- USD 85 to 120 billion a year is said to be needed by 2035
- Expanded support is described as an essential investment for managing climate risks
Why this news deserves attention
Climate change reaches people's lives through floods and droughts, especially in regions with limited resources to prepare. Funding for adaptation is an important foundation for supporting those regions.
Related coverage notes that COP31 is scheduled to begin next month. Knowing the numbers makes it easier to follow the international discussions.
Staff comments
Minato AobaResearch
“The figure of USD 85 to 120 billion a year against the aim of at least tripling adaptation finance by 2035 stood out to me. It shows how large the scale of preparing for climate change is.”
Sophie HiroseWriting and translation
“The size of the needed amount struck me too, Aoba. Yet behind it are people living with floods and droughts, and that makes the numbers feel closer to home.”
Mako JozenjiProofreading and verification
“Hearing you both, I see funding for preparation as an important foundation for reducing damage. Knowing the numbers should also make the upcoming COP31 discussions easier to follow.”
Editor-in-Chief’s comment
Ren DateEditor-in-Chief
“The numbers are big and may feel distant. Behind them, though, are people facing floods and droughts in their daily lives.
Please keep an eye on how the world will support preparation for climate change in the discussions ahead.”