The benefits of advancing the energy transition and other climate action in African countries will only be felt after 2040 due to the time-lag between changing greenhouse gas concentrations and temperature response, warns a report from the Netherlands-based Global Center on Adaptation. This is why countries must urgently focus on scaling up adaptation, it says.

Destruction in Maxixe, Mozambique, following tropical cyclone Dineo in 2017. (Photo by Tonis Valing via Shutterstock)

The level of climate change in Africa in the next 20 years is already locked in, the report states, and these impacts can only be reduced with adaptation.

The report identifies benefit-to-cost ratios greater than 2:1 for almost all adaptation projects. These ratios compare the economic benefits of a project to its capital, operating and maintenance costs over time.

For weather and climate information services, the benefit-to-cost ratio ranges from 4:1 to 25:1, the report states. For example, an early warning system for floods could help local governments take action to protect renewable energy assets, but only 30% of African countries have such warning systems in place.

Climate adaptation finance is scaling too slowly to build climate resilience, the report concludes, calling for more support from governments, multilateral development banks, pension funds and other sources.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.