This first UNEP Adaptation Gap Report provides a framework for defining adaptation gaps and a preliminary assessment of the gap between adaptation needs and reality. It proposes an approach for identifying and assessing the current state and action in key adaptation areas, and comparing these with the potential now, and in the future, for additional adaptation to reduce risks. The report is a response to calls for UNEP to produce a report on adaptation gaps to complement the annual Emissions Gap report.

Although adaptation is often a response to specific climate risks at a given time and in a given context, the preliminary analysis in the Adaptation Gap Report highlights that adaptation challenges also require global action. The UNEP Adaptation Gap Report 2014 will support discussions under the UNFCCC, including on adaptation aspects of the 2015 agreement, the discussion on defining a global goal for adaptation, aspects of loss and damage, and the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) process.

The assessment focuses on gaps in developing countries in three important areas: finance, technology and knowledge.  Other gaps, including in capacity and governance, are equally important to consider, as are the complex interactions between various gaps. The report also points to a number of areas for further action and future analysis. UNEP’s intention is to provide fuller analysis of some of these areas in future reports.