Examples of European good practice in integrating climate change adaptation into spatial planning

Current environmental problems such as climate change and the consequences of its effects present the global community with the task of mitigating the effects of climate change and adapting to the new climatic conditions. Adaptation measures involve changes in ecological, social or economic systems with the aim of mitigating potential damage that may occur as a result of climate change or taking advantage of the opportunities that arise from the new circumstances. Many countries are taking certain steps to build a more resilient society and economy, starting with the renewal of legal systems, the development of numerous adaptation solutions and the implementation of measures. Adaptation measures are not unique and are designed according to social and governmental organization, planning practices and economic standards and require great ambition and action to be implemented in an economically and socially acceptable way. Certain adaptation measures are largely part of planning practice in Serbia, such as flood protection measures and risk management measures. However, appropriate adaptation measures need to be part of a broader context in the planning process, which requires a change in the methodological and legal framework of planning. With the aim of contributing to the integration of climate change adaptation into spatial planning in Serbia, examples of good practice from European countries (UK, Denmark and Austria) that have introduced this process through both legislation and planning systems are presented. An example from a country in the region - Croatia with a local planning level in Karlovci - was also mentioned. As some planning solutions of this type have already been implemented, it is concluded that they can serve as a good example and indicator that adaptation through the planning system is possible.