This report documents and analyses good practice examples of ecosystem-based approaches to climate change mitigation and adaptation in Europe. Ecosystem-based approaches to mitigation (EBM) are defined as the use of ecosystems for their carbon storage and sequestration service to aid climate change mitigation. Ecosystem-based approaches to adaptation (EBA) are defined as the use of biodiversity and ecosystem services as part of an overall adaptation strategy to help people adapt to the adverse effects of climate change; these approaches may include sustainable management, conservation and restoration of ecosystems, as part of an overall adaptation strategy that takes into account the multiple social, economic and cultural co-benefits for local communities. Compilations of case studies relating to EBM and EBA are found in the literature, though these mainly focus on activities undertaken in developing countries. However, mitigation and adaptation activities are being undertaken in Europe. This study aims to show what is being and can be done to help people in Europe mitigate and adapt to climate change using ecosystem-based approaches.
