Transformative policy for climate change adaptation: scaling local climate responses

Abstract This paper explores the complex dynamics surrounding the implementation of climate change adaptation (CCA) approaches in the context of European cities, particularly those in peripheral regions facing heightened climate vulnerabilities. It argues that while scaling successful local adaptation strategies is essential, such efforts must move beyond replication to embrace translation, learning and place-specificities across multiple levels ranging from the local niche to the wider regime. Drawing on case studies from two European regions, it proposes a framework based on rationalisation, experimentation and legitimisation to assess what aspects of CCA are scalable and how this can be operationalised. This paper positions local-level CCA initiatives as potential drivers of broader sustainability transitions and practically asks how we can better foster governance arrangements that support systemic change.