CLIMATE RISK

COMMUNICATION
A guideline for project practitioners working with
the Vulnerability Sourcebook and its Risk
Supplement
As a federally owned enterprise, GIZ supports the German Government in achieving its objectives in the field of international cooperation for
sustainable development.

Published by:
Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH

Registered offices
Bonn and Eschborn, Germany

Competence Centre Climate Change

Climate Policy Support Programme
65760 Eschborn, Germany
T +49 61 96 79-0
F +49 61 96 79-11 15
E info@[Link]
I [Link]/en; [Link]
[Link]

Authors:
Dennis Eucker, Stefan Kienberger, Sandra Schuster, Alina Berendsen, Carlos Saavedra, Lisa Hunsinger, Martin Becher, Dana
Yermolyonok, Jafar Iqbal, Wiebke Homes, Elena Raudasch, Marilia Bonfim.

With contributions from:

Julian Andersen, Angela Marcia Andrade, Aracely Salazar Anton, Koffi Apedjagbo, Till Below, Alina Berendsen; Pablo Borges, Ana
Bublatzky, Ana-Carolina Camara, Kristin Diederich, Anne Gädeke, Julia Gaus, Sussan Morales González, Heinrich Gudenus, Nicola
Hanke, Stephanie Heiland, Rita Houngue, Emilia Huss, Ahmed Istiakh, Sabrine Jelili, Julia Karch, Pimkarn Kattiyavong, Shabnam
Khanam, Tilmann Kiesel, Rugani Kirite, Sebastian Koch, Marina Kosmus, Milena Kozomara, Isabelle Kues, Mariam Kvaratskhelia,
Wolfram Lange, Carmen Langner, Stefan Liersch, Jörg Linke, Naima Lipka, Ahlem Masmoudi, Astrid Michels, Rajat Shubhro
Mukherjee, Sebastian Ostberg, Tiago Pinheiro, Alvaro Luna Luis Guzman Ramos, Manuela Reinhard, Rocío Rivas, Alvaro Rojas,
Andrea Salinas, Michaela Schaller, Inke Schauser, Stefan Schneiderbauer, Martha Lannes Schoeler, Johannes Schuhmann, Miriam
Seemann, Mostofa Omar Sharif, Mariia Skupova, Patrick Smytzek, Mir Rashed Sohel, Carol Soto, Ignacio Tourino Soto, Carolina
Spinola, Siwaporn Tangwanichagapong, Wala Toumi, Valentina Tridello, Katerin Brieger Valencia, Maike Voß, Florian Waldschmidt,
Timm Walker, Patrick Zuell.

Design/layout:

Judith Vanessa Santander Quisbert / GIZ

Photo sources:

p. 11 – GIZ Bangladesh, p. 25 – GIZ Bolivia, p. 27 – GIZ Brazil, p. 30 – GIZ Costa Rica, p. 34 – GIZ Kazakhstan, p. 35 – GIZ Thailand,
p. 36 – GIZ Togo

Maps:

The maps printed here are intended only for information purposes and in no way constitute recognition under international law of
boundaries and territories. GIZ accepts no responsibility for these maps being entirely up to date, correct or complete. All liability for
damage, direct or indirect, resulting from their use is excluded.

Eschborn/Bonn, 2022
Contents

About this publication.................................................................................................................................. 5

Chapter 1: Introduction.................................................................................................................................. 7

Why this guideline?..................................................................................................................................................7

How was this guideline developed?.........................................................................................................................7
Who is this guideline for?.........................................................................................................................................8
What does this guideline offer?................................................................................................................................8
When to consult the guideline?................................................................................................................................9

Chapter 2: Climate risk communication – terminology and concepts.................................................. 11

2.1 How to define climate risk communication?..................................................................................................... 11

2.2 What needs to be considered in climate risk communication?........................................................................12
2.3 How to identify and involve stakeholders in climate risk communication?.......................................................14

Chapter 3: Best practices.............................................................................................................................. 16

Chapter 4: Guidelines for developing and implementing a climate risk communication approach.25

4.1 Reflect on a communication approach that takes participatory and gender aspects into account..................26
4.2 Understand the context of your communication approach..............................................................................28
4.3 Identify objectives and expected outcomes.....................................................................................................29
4.4 Determine the scope of the communication approach....................................................................................30
4.5 Elaborate tools and methodologies for climate risk communication................................................................31
4.6 Implement your communication approach.......................................................................................................36
4.7 Evaluate the success of the communication approach....................................................................................37

Chapter 5: Annexes ...................................................................................................................................... 40

5.1 Communicating the degree of confidence in CRVA findings: A participatory step-by-step approach..............40
5.2 Further information and resources on conducting climate risk & vulnerability assessments...........................43

Bibliography........................................................................................................................... 45

Figures

Figure 1: Selected results from the CoP CR needs assessment on climate risk communication.................... 7

Figure 2: Overview of factors leading from communication to action communication.............................. 13

Figure 3: The seven steps of a climate risk communication approach......................................................... 26

Figure 4: Criteria for analysing the context of the communication approach. ............................................ 29

Figure 5: A depiction of evidence and agreement statements and their relationship to confidence............ 40

Figure 6: Matrix to define the robustness of climate data and sources......................................................... 41

Figure 7: Matrix to define the level of confidence in trends for different hazard-related categories .......... 42
 Dear colleagues,

The climate community at large is well equipped to respond to the technical challenges imposed by
the global climate crisis, as they understand what’s at stake. But they are usually not communication
specialists. Yet, effective communication is crucial in achieving behavioural change in decision makers,
stakeholders in different socio-cultural contexts, and at large, today’s society. Now, even more so, as we
see and witness the accelerating climate crisis unfolding and we find ourselves moving towards the age of
adaptation.
Communication should address the specific barriers of different actor groups, which hinder applying
more climate-aware behaviour. We have often wondered, if practitioners/“technicians” are in a position to
fully achieve this? This publication “Climate Risk Communication - A guideline for project practitioners
working with the vulnerability sourcebook and its risk supplement”, coordinated by GIZ’s Community
of Practice Climate Risk (CoP CR) and written by its members will provide you insights on how to make
climate risk communication work for different target and informed decision-making on adaptation to
climate change.
The CoP CR is an important knowledge platform for supporting the work of GIZ within the broader
context of climate change. It fosters the exchange of experiences and provides support to identify best
practices on topics such as innovative approaches related to climate risk and vulnerability analysis, climate
risk assessment and communication. For this guideline, contributions were made from members from
GIZ in Germany and, more importantly, from our colleagues in our partner countries and regions.
Particular attention should be given to the fact, that the CoP CR also includes members from scientific
and consultancy organisations and with this ensures an exchange between science and practice – between
theory and application.
The direct impacts of climate change are manifold, yet their associated risks are highly influenced by
geographical, socio-economic, socio-political, and cultural contexts. This means that the conditions for
risk-informed behavioural change and decision-making to adapt to climate change across countries,
regions and individuals are highly context-specific. There will be no “one size fits all”, but solutions
can and must be found together with decision-makers at different levels, and together with vulnerable
population groups. In this, international cooperation can make an important contribution for and
with our partner countries, by supporting approaches to identify innovative solutions and by providing
experience from similar contexts.
We would like to express our gratitude to the CoP Climate Risk members, who have invested their
time and energy in finalising this timely and important guideline. And for everyone, who will be using
this guideline: we wish you well in your climate risk communication endeavours. May they create the
behaviour change necessary for adaptation on climate change – globally.

Competence Centre Climate Change, GIZ

Dr. Jörg Linke Dr. Sandra Schuster

Head Advisor

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 4

 About this publication

Founded in 2017, the Community of Practice Climate Risk (CoP CR) offers a forum for
sustained and coordinated peer learning, exchange, and innovation among globally leading experts
in the field of climate risk with strong ties to German development cooperation. The technical
exchange among experts within GIZ, and especially also with external experts & service providers
(e.g., from science and consultancies), conducting climate risk and vulnerability assessments
(CRVA) is highly valuable for the work conducted by the German development cooperation and
GIZ in particular.
CRVA can serve different purposes including awareness raising, identification of adaptation
needs and gaps as well as adaptation measures, guiding and incentivizing investments and
monitoring of implemented adaptation measures and evaluation of their successes. In addition
to sharing knowledge and implementation experience, the CoP CR and its workstreams aim to
develop orientations and guidelines about climate risk, and to make these available within and
outside of the community.
Further information can be found at: [Link]
assessment-management/community-of-practice-on-climate-risk/
One of the CoP CR‘s workstreams deals with the topic of risk competence and integrated
climate risk communication (workstream “Climate Risk Communication”). This work area is
intended to support the competent application of the results of risk and vulnerability analyses
for decision-making on individual and collective adaptation strategies. This includes a variety of
communication means that can be relevant and helpful to better assess the evidence and associated
uncertainties of climate risk and vulnerability as well the resulting options for adaptation action
to be chosen.
The present guideline was developed jointly by members of the CoP CR between 2020 and
2022 with the aim to provide directions on the preparation and implementation of communication
approaches and the dissemination of results to different users and target groups for the improved
uptake of the results of CRVA.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 5

Chapter 1: Introduction

Why this guideline?

How was this guideline developed?
Who is this guideline for?
What does this guideline offer?
When to consult the guideline?

Contents 6
 Chapter 1: Introduction

Why this guideline?

The GIZ Vulnerability Sourcebook (GIZ, adelphi, EURAC, 2014) offers step-by-step guidelines for climate
vulnerability assessments. The focus of the sourcebook is on the assessment of vulnerability in the context
of the IPCC AR4 (IPCC, 2007) terminology and approaches, thus providing guidance on vulnerability
assessments to determine climate change adaptation options. As the IPCC AR5 (IPCC, 2014) and the
IPCC SREX (IPCC, 2012) moved from focusing on vulnerability to focusing on risk of climate-related
impacts, GIZ and EURACs Risk Supplement (GIZ & EURAC, 2017) took account of this change and
provides a guideline on how to work with the Vulnerability Sourcebook using the IPCC AR5 risk concept.
The general approach of the Vulnerability Sourcebook with its step-by-step approach in eight modules,
which are based on impact chains, indicators and (semi-)quantitative assessments, has been further
developed in its methodology. The approach has itself proven successful in its application. The Vulnerability
Sourcebook has been applied in a multitude of CRVAs in different countries and project contexts.
However, the communication and translation of findings of assessments to its target users and target groups
remain a challenge. In this, the steps to incorporate communication approaches into CRVA is particularly
difficult for many decision-makers in partner countries. Consequently, approaches to communicate results
of CRVA remained often at unplanned and unstructured levels, which, in the worst case, questioned their
effectiveness, impact and ultimately limited their uptake and required action.
Therefore, the Community of Practice Climate Risk (CoP CR) took the decision during its 2019 thematic
priority planning to develop a guideline on the communication of climate risks, as a tool for project
practitioners working with the vulnerability sourcebook and its risk supplement. The guideline intends to
provide a direction on how to prepare and implement suitable communication approaches and on how to
disseminate results to different users and target groups for the improved uptake of CRVA findings.

How was this guideline developed?

Between 2020 and 2022, members of the CoP CR developed What is the relevance of climate risk
this guide jointly in a four-step process. communication in your current working
context?
Step 1: a needs assessment was conducted among CoP CR
• “Climate risk communication is a core output of the
members between July and September 2020, in which nearly project!”
80 colleagues and experts from the climate risk community • “Climate risk communication builds a basis for policy
participated in an online survey. The results of the survey advice and decision-making!”
provided information on the need and relevance of a guideline • “Communicating climate risks is a key aspect for
on the communication of climate risks. bridging CRA results with adaptation action and
finance!”
The results of the survey showed the high relevance of the • “Climate risk communication is part and parcel of
topic among all (international, national, local) CoP CR mainstreaming processes!”
members. While respondents were unanimous that climate • “Communicating about evidence and uncertainty is
risk communication was (very) relevant to their work context, one of the bottlenecks to increase awareness of decision-
makers and society!”
few respondents seemed to have detailed orientation on the
• “There is a large potential for reflecting on how to
communication of climate risk. Most respondents to the survey communicate specific climate risks better!”
indicated they did not have access to a standardized step-by-
step approach and thus “relied on sharing ideas and experience
with colleagues.”
Figure 1: Selected results from the CoP CR needs assessment
on climate risk [Link] communication

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 7

 Step 2: a webinar with the objective to share experiences and identify knowledge gaps in climate risk
communication that should be covered by a guideline was held. Around 100 members of the CoP CR
and other interested parties participated at this event, which was held in February 2021. During the
webinar, participants presented, learned about, and discussed approaches and experiences of climate risk
communication approaches practised in different partner countries and project contexts (Bangladesh,
Brazil, Costa Rica, Thailand, Togo). In addition, the proposed content and options for the development of
a corresponding knowledge product were discussed and selected.
As a result, the webinar concluded in defining the following priorities for the preparation of a guideline on
climate risk communication, and what it should entail:
• A step-by-step guideline on how to approach communication-related aspects of climate risks;
• A list/catalogue of best practices and examples from projects aiming at the reduction of climate risks
and adaptation to climate change;
• Recommendations on how to communicate climate risks to decision-makers at national and/or
subnational levels; and
• Recommendations on how to communicate climate risks to target groups at local levels.
Step 3: a draft version of the guideline was developed between March 2021 and February 2022. For this
purpose, a sub-group of CoP CR members was formed from GIZ headquarter and field staff, as well
as members from the scientific community and consulting firms. In regular meetings, the structure and
content of the guideline was discussed, adapted, and drafted.
Step 4: a final draft version of the guideline was presented to CoP CR members at a technical workshop in
February 2022. Further adjustments were made thereafter, based on feedback and comments.
The final version of the guideline was launched in November 2022 and made available to the CoP
CR members. At the same time, the document was published to a wider audience on the Adaptation
Community knowledge platform:
[Link]
climate-risk/

Who is this guideline for?

This guideline is meant to be a tool for the members of the CoP CR as well as for colleagues of projects
within the wider network of German Cooperation for Sustainable Development, and their partners. We
believe that this guideline is relevant for projects that are tasked with the preparation and implementation
of CRVA – especially those following the GIZ Vulnerability Sourcebook and Risk Supplement approach
– and would recommend the use of this guideline. It is addressed to specialists, consultants and scientists
who are conducting such analyses. The guideline provides an orientation on how to (co-)create, prepare and
effectively communicate the results of CRVAs in a user-friendly and target group-oriented way.

What does this guideline offer?

Based on the experience of selected GIZ-implemented projects that were in the process of implementation
during the time frame between 2020 and 2022, this guideline offers insights and lessons learned on the
preparation and implementation of climate risk communication approaches. In addition, complementary
publications from GIZ, partner institutions and communication science and related disciplines were
consulted.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 8

 Following the introduction in chapter 1, an overview of climate risk communication terminology and
concepts will be provided in chapter 2. Details on what climate risk communication is, what it entails,
what should be considered in the context of strategic approaches, which stakeholders and target groups it is
aimed at, and how to ensure their involvement in the context of participatory approaches are elaborated in
this chapter. Chapter 3 focuses on experiences and best practices approaches of climate risk communication
as well as the resulting outcomes from selected GIZ projects in Bangladesh, Bolivia, Brazil, Costa Rica,
Kazakhstan / Georgia / Vietnam, Thailand, and Togo. Chapter 4 provides guidance on the development
and implementation of a proper and step-by-step climate risk communication approach. Consisting of
seven steps, the guideline includes aspects of participatory and gender-positive ways for gaining an accurate
understanding of the context, objectives, targeted outcomes, and the framework of the communication
approach. Methodological options for the successful implementation of the communication approach
will be addressed likewise. The concluding chapter 5 presents a participatory step-by-step approach for
communicating the degree of confidence in CRVA findings, and lists further GIZ sources and information
on the topic of climate risk communication that can be consulted.

When to consult the guideline?

This guideline should be consulted whenever a CRVA is planned as part of a project in the broader context
of a) assessing and addressing climate risks of one or several thematic sectors (e. g. agriculture, biodiversity,
human health, economic development) or areas (e. g. country-wide, regional, urban/ local, coastal zones),
b) elaborating adaptation strategies and measures, and/or c) providing support to the development and
implementation of NDC and/or NAP strategies.
The guideline provides an overview of the resources needed and possible methodological challenges
encountered when developing a communication approach of CRVA, and how to overcome them. Moreover,
it provides guidance and support to its implementation and evaluation.
Please note that this guideline should be embedded in the modular scheme of the eight modules of the
Vulnerability Sourcebook (GIZ, adelphi, EURAC, 2014) and its Risk Supplement (GIZ & EURAC,
2017), supplementing it as a ninth module with detailed communication aspects. It is therefore advisable
to consult the present guideline in parallel with, and complementary to, the application of the Vulnerability
Sourcebook and the Risk Supplement.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 9

Chapter 2: Climate risk communication –
terminology and concepts

How to define climate risk communication?

What needs to be considered in climate risk communication?
How to identify and involve stakeholders in climate risk communication?

Contents 10
 Chapter 2: Climate risk communication – terminology and
concepts
This chapter aims to provide the terminology and concepts to effectively communicate climate-related
risks to different users and target groups. It deals with the question of how climate risk communication is
understood, what it includes and how stakeholders and target groups can be involved in a participatory
way. The chapter thus provides a conceptual foundation for the upcoming Chapter 4 which will guideline
the way to preparing and implementing a communication approach on climate risk.
For this reason, the chapter addresses three fundamental questions: a) How to define climate risk
communication?, b) What needs to be considered in climate risk communication?, and c) How to identify
and involve stakeholders in climate risk communication?

2.1 How to define climate risk communication?

Risk, in the context of climate change, is defined as the “potential for adverse consequences for human
or ecological systems, recognizing the diversity of values and objectives associated with such systems. In
the context of climate change, risks can arise from potential impacts of climate change as well as human
responses to climate change” (Reisinger, Howden, Vera, et al., 2020:4). Climate risk is determined by
the interplay of exposure, vulnerability and extreme climate events, the latter of which is dependent on
natural variability and anthropogenic climate change (IPCC, 2018). Reducing exposure and vulnerability
to climate events is thus key to reducing the likelihood of adverse climate effects (climate risk).

Photo 1. GIZ Bangladesh

In the context of responding to climate change, risk communication can be understood as a process of
exchanging and sharing information about climate-related risks and its underlying factors. Risk information
can relate to the existence, nature, form, likelihood, severity, acceptability, response measures or other
aspects of risk and is shared between various knowledge holders, decision-makers and other stakeholders,
including researchers, technicians, advisors, managers, practitioners, members of the public, authorities,
media, interest groups, etc.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 11

 Climate risk communication may also include the concept of climate services, which are generally understood
as “customized products such as projections, forecasts, information, trends, economic analyses (including technology
assessments), counselling on best practices, development and evaluation of solutions and any other services in
relation to climate that may be of use for society at large” (European Commission, Directorate-General for
Research and Innovation, Jacob, Runge, Street, et al., 2015:10). Climate-related services combine climate
information and data with other relevant information, to be used by targeted end-users.
Numerous publications on climate change communication already exist. However, few of them address
specifically the challenges related to the communication of climate risk. We therefore refer to climate risk
wherever possible, when specific information is available – such as in the context of CRVA - or when we
draw on our own experience and conclusions in dealing with communication-related aspects of climate
risk. Or else, our conclusions are both drawn from existing literature and experience in the field of climate
risk.
The next subchapter will outline which considerations might be useful to be included in climate risk
communication.

2.2 What needs to be considered in climate risk communication?

The following four central questions can help to guide how to approach climate risk communication:
• How to communicate effectively (method)?
The most common method of conveying climate change information by experts or communicators is still
the use of ‘one-way’ public presentations and talks (McLoughlin, et al., 2018), which may include the
results of climate risk and vulnerability studies and respective data.
Yet there is an increasingly widespread recognition of the importance of participatory approaches. In these,
the aim is not to simply “inform” different target groups and users about the results, but to enable them
by using a specific and tailored approach to use the available sources for informed decision-making. It is
therefore important that the communication approach will be prepared specifically for these groups and
communicated according to their existing level of knowledge (Grothmann, 2017).
A key principle for effective climate change communication is the creation of opportunities and the use of
methods that are engaging and co-produced. These could include the establishment of engaging dialogues
that allow the communicator a better understanding the audience’s values and interests, which in turn
supports efforts to tailor messages to different audiences and their needs, as well as the utilization of creative
storytelling.
• Who to reach (users of climate services and information)?
Target groups and users of climate services and information can vary depending on the scope of the
communication approach. They may include employees working in the public and private sector, civil
society organizations, media, education, and can range from actors at the national to local level, but, for
example, can also include multipliers (for example, trainers of trainers (ToT)) and vulnerable communities.
In engaging with these groups, it can make sense to question how to reach out to new and/or specific
audiences instead of addressing an audience often composed of the same, already engaged people
(McLoughlin, et al., 2018).
• What to communicate (narrative)?
Climate risk is a complex topic characterized by a high level of uncertainty and affects people all over
the world in different ways. A strategic communication approach gives the opportunity to increase
understanding and awareness of the user group through scientific clarity and accuracy.
Regardless of the narrative chosen, it is highly advisable to avoid catastrophism in communication, as it

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 12

 can lead to a defensive reaction by the audience. Rather, using stories and target group specific narratives
which may include “good” and “promising” examples is a powerful tool to build common ground on
which effective communication can take place. By integrating narratives and context-specific examples into
climate risk data and information, according to (McLoughlin, et al., 2018), resonation with the audience
can be achieved.
• What do we want to achieve (aim)?
Every communication is usually based on a purpose. A goal for all communication should be, that it
catalyzes action, which is based on the acquired knowledge and needs of the users and target groups.
Although awareness of climate risks already exists in many different contexts, groups, and individuals from
all sectors of government, economy and society, this awareness does often not yet result in enough action
to achieve long-term targets and results. It will therefore be important to translate technical and scientific
data into financial and management information for decision makers to move beyond working on effective
and interesting narratives for climate risk communication.
However, scientific approaches from environmental psychology have looked at the question on how
information and knowledge deficits can be overcome. Based on empirical studies, it is assumed that there is
usually only a slight correlation between climate risk knowledge and action. It is seemingly a multitude of
social, cultural, economic, political, infrastructural and natural factors that play a role and need to be taken
into account (Grothmann, 2017). Only with sufficient consideration of these factors will it be possible to
achieve problem- and action related reflections among the target audience and nurture the intention to
act, based on the information provided. The following graphic depicts a framework model on the different
factors leading from communication to action.

Social, cultural, economic, political, infrastructural, and natural factors

Trigger Mental Processes Risk-Reducing

Action

Non-personal Knowledge on climate Action Knowledge on

knowledge transfer change and climate climate change and
(e.g. through websites) impacts adaptation Habits

Information sources Problem- related Action-related Intention to act ->

reflections reflections Action
Personal knowledge
transfer (e.g. through Trust in media / state / Effectiveness beliefs Clarity and stregth of
“trusted messengers”) climate science objectives
Cost-benefit
Learning through General / personal risk reflections Opportunity
experience perception
Perceived barriers Internal and external
Personality factors Memory of personal barriers to action
damage due to climate Emotions / Attitude
Identity perceptions Emotions
change Group and personal
identities and norms Social support
Emotions

Values Values

Figure 2: Overview of factors leading from communication to action (adapted from Grothmann, 2017)k communication

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 13

 2.3 How to identify and involve stakeholders in climate risk communication?
The involvement of stakeholders is an important component in climate risk communication. When
stakeholders participate, a common understanding and involvement in the decision-making process can
be achieved and in the case of climate risk communication, stakeholders can be included in strategic
communication plans and processes.
To determine whose interests should be considered, it is recommended that a stakeholder analysis should be
carried out in the beginning of the climate risk and vulnerability assessment
to systematically gather and analyze qualitative information.
However, the point needs to be made, that the level of
stakeholders’ involvement strongly depends on their level
of influence with regards to the identified risks, how are
they affected by those risks, but also their contribution
to proposed solutions and the decision-making
processes (Ndlela, 2019). Assessing the level of
influence and interest of identified stakeholders
should therefore enable the communicator(s) to
identify and prioritize the relevant stakeholders.
This will additionally help to establish the
appropriate level of communication relative
to their influence. Finally, stakeholders
should not only be kept informed but also
actively engaged in consulting. This ensures
empowerment and joint ownership of the
communication.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 14

Chapter 3: Best practices

Bangladesh
Bolivia
Brazil
Costa Rica
Kazakhstan, Georgia and Vietnam
Thailand
Togo

Contents 15
 Chapter 3: Best practices
This chapter presents a compilation of experiences on the preparation and implementation of climate
risk communication approaches. These were collated from various GIZ projects located in nine different
countries, namely Bangladesh, Bolivia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Kazakhstan, Georgia and Vietnam, Thailand and
Togo. Project examples range from sectoral approaches in river basin management, agriculture, economic
development, water, and health to more thematic areas in national and subnational climate risk governance.
For reasons of readability and comparability, the project examples are presented in tabular form. In addition
to naming the project country and the sector within which the communication approach was performed,
the project title and duration, a short overview description, the communication type or method, resulting
products and the outcomes are listed. Links to further information as well as the names of the main contact
persons for further inquiries complement this overview.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 16

 Contact
Project Project Type/method of Further infor- (name.
Sector Duration Overview Products Outcomes
country title communication mation/ links surname@
[Link]
The project systematically
The project supports selected addresses the existing
sector ministries in incoherence between climate
Bangladesh in the use of policy objectives and other sector
improved capacities and specific strategies.
processes for integrating
climate risks and national It supports the government of
adaptation goals into planning Bangladesh in achieving an Participatory research-based
and decision-making at effective increase in climate climate information brochures
national and local level. resilience through an adequate and inventories, where all the
The communication
National climate risk governance

consideration of climate risks and relevant and available climate

approach enables
The implementation of the national adaptation goals within the information sources for policy makers and
NAP and NAP and the NDC are planning processes of Bangladesh are being other stakeholders
Bangladesh

NDC supported through capacity development measures. compiled in one place. in Bangladesh to NAP and NDC
Support 2019-2021 development and knowledge access and utilise Support Programme Emilia Huss
Programme enrichment of the relevant To this end, the capacities of In addition, demand-oriented climate information
Government ministries and selected ministries and their local and up-to-date gender- for climate adaptive
Departments. authorities are being enhanced. sensitive climate information is development
Knowledge and skills of the being made available for planning.
The NAP and NDC Support officials for improved integration of systematic use by the ministry
Programme aims at climate risks and national officials.
improving capacities and adaptation goals are strengthened
processes for integrating through tailored participatory and
climate risks and national communication approaches.
adaptation goals at national
and local level. The exchange and cooperation
between sector ministries and
climate information providers are
promoted.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 17

 Contact
Project Project Type/method of Further infor- (name.
Sector Duration Overview Products Outcomes
country title communication mation/ links surname@
[Link]

Evaluación del
In close cooperation with the Climate impact chains were riesgo climático en
Technical and Social Committee of developed, discussed and The communication la cuenca Azero,
Climate change directly the River basin Platforms and the reviewed in virtual workshops,approach helped to Chuquisaca
impacts the availability and coordination group of key in which concerns of water create an exchange
scarcity of water across stakeholders in both river basins, users, communities, and and a common Evaluación del
Bolivian river basins. the project supported the stakeholders were expressed understanding riesgo climático en
development of an online on the increasing impacts of among workshop la cuenca
A pilot action explored links workshop series to: a) elaborate climate change. participants of the Guadalquivir
between climate risks, and quantify climate impact chains, risks and
River basinmanagement

Integrated vulnerability and adaptation in b) identify the areas were higher Graphic presentations and a vulnerabilities Marco de
rural the Azero and Guadalquivir climate risk is predicted, c) develop video showed proposed related to climate modelación y Toma
develop- River basins. a virtual dialogue between local adaptation options and were change in the river de decisiones Carlos
Bolivia

ment at river 2018-2023 communities and policy makers to discussed with the target basins. robustas en la Saavedra
basis level The main purpose of the enhance the ability of technical and group. gestión de los
(PRO- activity was to help the policy makers to integrate At the same time, recursos hídricos en
CUENCA) members of river basin considerations of site-specific Brochures and didactic robust decision la Cuenca
platforms and water user climate risks into planning material helped to making to prioritize Guadalquivir
organizations to identify, processes. communicate potential impacts adaptation
integrate and implement of climate change and measures was Marco de
resilient adaptation water Robust Decision Making (XLRM adaptation responses. In based on clear modelación y Toma
management innovations and approach) was used to draft a addition, in a community information of the de decisiones
practices. strategy against multiple future gathering a poster describing climate risk robustas em la
scenarios and critical climate climate risks and adaptation assessment.| gestión de los
uncertainties at the river basins. options was presented. recursos hídricos en
la Cuenca Azero

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 18

 Contact
Project Project Type/method of Further infor- (name.
Sector Duration Overview Products Outcomes
country title communication mation/ links surname@
[Link]

The project supports Brazil to

effectively implement its
national agenda for
adaptation to climate change
at national, federal, and
municipal levels.
The communication
One of the project’s In close cooperation with the Altogether, eight climate impactapproach helped to
Sub-national climate risk governance

Supporting implementing partners has municipality of Salvador and the chains were developed, create an exchange
Brazil in the been the municipality of coordination group of the Salvador discussed and reviewed in a and a common
implementa- Salvador da Bahia in which a Climate Change Panel, the project process of co-creation over a understanding
tion of its climate change panel was supported all the panel`s thematic six-months course. among participants
National officially launched at the chambers (coastal zones; urban of the Climate Salvador Climate Dennis
Brazil

Agenda for 2017-2023 UNFCCC Regional Climate transport; water management; The final version of the impact Change Panel of Action Plan Eucker
Climate Week for Latin America and green areas; energy infrastructure chains was included as Annex the risks and
Change the Caribbean (LACCW) in and supply; resilience; human in the municipal Climate Action vulnerabilities
Adaptation 2019. health; urban innovation) in the Plan (PMAMC) of Salvador, related to climate
(ProAdapta) systematic and participatory that was launched in change in the urban
The panel consists of a elaboration and quantification of December 2020. context and in
network of regional and local climate impact chains. different key sectors
universities and research of Salvador.
institutions, with the aim to
advising decision-makers
about climate-related risks
and vulnerabilities and
adaptation options on a
scientific basis.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 19

 Contact
Project Project Type/method of Further infor- (name.
Sector Duration Overview Products Outcomes
country title communication mation/ links surname@
[Link]

The project works together with

stakeholders along banana and
pineapple value chains, from farm Implementation of biodiversity-
to fork. friendly practices on farms and
thus making their activities less
Close dialogue with ministries in impactful and more resilient to
Costa Rica and the Dominican climate change.
The project aims at Republic is maintained, to improve
integrating aspects of the frameworks for agricultural A manual with the
biodiversity and ecosystem practices that preserve biodiversity. systematization of success The communication
From Farm services into banana and stories in the implementation of approach
to Fork – pineapple value chains. The project is also selecting pilot biodiversity and climate change contributed to a
Mainstream- farms which already implement measures. paradigm change in
Agriculture
Costa Rica

ing Biodiver- 2018-2023 To ensure favourable growing biodiversity-responsible measures agricultural and From Farm to Fork Sussan
sity in Agri- conditions in the long term, it and can underpin An online training course and farming practices by Project Morales
cultural Food is important that producers recommendations with practical presentation on the use of sharing experiences
Value are informed about expected lessons learned. meteorological data for and showing
Chains climate risks and possible decision-making in the success stories.
adaptation approaches and Moreover, the project uses the agricultural sector was
adapt their cultivation “Agricultural Biodiversity Check”, a developed and conducted,
methods accordingly. diagnosis tool that guides farms including topics such as: “Why
towards the implementation of a the climate is changing and
Biodiversity Action Plan. how to adapt your farm?”,
based on a case study in the
The project developed a training humid tropical region of the
programme for farm managers and Caribbean of Costa Rica.
producers on farming for
biodiversity.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 20

 Contact
Project Project Type/method of Further infor- (name.
Sector Duration Overview Products Outcomes
country title communication mation/ links surname@
[Link]

The project provides extensive Through climate

training in climate economics for economic
model developers and model In each project country, 15-30 modelling, the
users, who then enable authorities economists participated in the following was
in the pilot countries to include the trainings. Communication answered:
impacts of climate change and material such as field reports/
appropriate adaptation measures policy briefs, modelling reports (1) what are
The project has developed in their development planning. and visualizations/ dashboards economy-wide
macroeconomic models that are being produced and effects of climate
Kazakhstan, Georgia and Vietnam

include climate change In Kazakhstan, Georgia and include national reports on the change and
Policy impacts and enables national Vietnam, the project receives analyses of climate hazards. adaptation
Economic development

Advice for institutions to apply the support from specialised institutes measures?
Climate models to different climate conducting economic structures Sectoral policy briefs on the Policy Advice for
Resilient 2019-2022 change adaptation scenarios research with regards to modelling economy-wide effects of (2) in which sectors Climate Resilient Dana
Economic for economic sectors. and holding the training courses. adaptation in different sectors are economic Economic Yermolyonok
Develop of economy were written. effects of adaptation Development
ment The modelling results are In addition, the project advises measures most
(CRED) used to inform national ministries on applying findings from A practitioner`s guide on pronounced and
economic development and the modelling to prioritize climate economic modelling for
adaptation planning. adaptation investments and sustainable economic (3) what economic
ensures that their economic development was developed. instruments will
development pathway is climate support climate-
resilient in the long term. A policy brief on resilient economic
macroeconomic models for development?
It also promotes international climate resilience was written.
exchange by sharing project Results will be fed
experience and developing into policy
communication materials. processes.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 21

 Contact
Project Project Type/method of Further infor- (name.
Sector Duration Overview Products Outcomes
country title communication mation/ links surname@
[Link]

A policy brief series stipulating

the need to integrate climate
change adaptation into the Developing context-
Mainstreaming climate change Thai water sector and specific guidance
The project supports the Thai adaptation and EbA on the national promoting EbA solutions was products for
government to mainstream and river basin level builds on a written. policymakers and Thai-German
adaptation to climate change, comprehensive capacity building practitioners, Climate Programme
including Ecosystem-based programme and an interconnected A guideline on climate-sensitive accompanied by – Water
Adaptation (EbA), into water series of knowledge management river basin planning setting on-the-job trainings,
policies and planning products. forth the consideration of is key to enhance Fostering
processes. climate change adaptation and knowledge on Ecosystem-based
The development of a national EbA for water management at different aspects of Adaptation in River
It supports institutional and guideline for climate-sensitive river river basin scale was EbA and to help Basin Planning for
Thai-Ger- technical capacity building to planning will set the regulatory published. enable Yom and
Thailand

man Climate 2018-2022 strengthen understanding framework for the River Basin policymakers and Sakaekrang River Lisa
Water

Programme and management water- Committees to engage in climate- An ‘EbA Guidebook’ to guide practitioners to Basins in Thailand Hunsinger
related climate risks and to sensitive basin planning with EbA decision-makers in the water make informed
enhance the development of as a key strategy for adaptation. and other related sectors on decisions. Thai Water
climate-sensitive river basin the EbA cycle was published. stakeholders
plans that are based on The three-phased capacity The multilevel and strengthen
climate risk and vulnerability development programme and An ‘EbA Code of Practice’ interconnected knowledge on
assessments. accompanying knowledge products offering blueprints of EbA approach paves the Integrated Water
render all involved stakeholders fit options and technical guidance way for a broader Resources
It follows a participatory multi- to engage in identifying, selecting, was written. uptake of EbA as an Management
stakeholder approach. planning and implementing adaptation and
suitable EbA solutions in the A ‘River Basin Master Plan water management
respective river basins. Toolbox’ compiling concepts strategy in Thailand.
and tools to facilitate
participatory processes for river
basin planning was created.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 22

 Contact
Project Project Type/method of Further infor- (name.
Sector Duration Overview Products Outcomes
country title communication mation/ links surname@
[Link]

From February to December 2019 The following knowledge

the project supported the Togolese products were produced:
The project aims at Ministry of Health with the
increasing the access of the elaboration of their first CRVA in Assessment of Climate
population to high-quality the health sector. Change-related Risks and ProSanté II :
health care services, Vulnerabilities in the Health Increase of quality
especially in sexual and The national study on three Sector in Togo (Executive and use of
Health Sys- reproductive health. diseases (malaria, meningitis and Summary; Final Report, and a reproductive and
tem acute respiratory infections), using report on Challenges and sexual health
Strengthen- The topic of climate change quantitative and qualitative recommendations). Provide information services in Togo
Human health

ing – Sexual adaptation in the health methods, was carried out with the of proposal content
and Repro- 2020-2023 sector is transversally support of a consortium of external Report on challenges in using for climate funding. CRVA of the Alina
Togo

ductive integrated and contributes to specialists. the DHIS-2 platform as part of Togolese health Berendsen
Health and fostering Togo’s Health the assessment of the health Training of ministry sector
Rights / Governance. The consortium applied the sector vulnerability to climate members.
ProSanté Vulnerability Sourcebook change. HNAP of the
Besides a CRVA on three methodology. Over the course of Togolese health
diseases (malaria, meningitis the risk and vulnerability Dissemination Strategy – sector
and acute respiratory assessment, maps to Assessment of Climate
infections), a Health National communicate risk were developed. Change-related Vulnerabilities
Adaptation Plan was and Risks in the Health Sector
developed. Results from the CRVA were in Togo.
integrated in a training manual.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 23

Chapter 4: Guidelines for developing and
implementing a climate risk communication
approach

Reflect on a communication approach that takes participatory and gender

aspects into account
Understand the context of your communication approach
Identify objectives and expected outcomes
Determine the scope of the communication approach
Elaborate tools and methodologies for climate risk communication
Implement your communication approach
Evaluate the success of the communication approach

Contents 24
 Chapter 4: Guidelines for developing and implementing a
climate risk communication approach
This chapter aims to provide guidelines for developing and implementing a climate risk communication
approach to disseminate data, information and insights gained on climate risk and vulnerability assessments
to different groups of users of climate services and information. This chapter is closely based on the steps
and modules for conducting a comprehensive risk and vulnerability assessment outlined in the GIZ
Vulnerability Sourcebook (GIZ, adelphi, EURAC, 2014) and in the Risk Supplement (GIZ & EURAC,
2017) and deals with the question of how to better integrate users at different stages of the process.
When it comes to communicating climate-related risks and vulnerabilities, communication should be
considered from the very beginning and be integrated into the whole assessment process. The approaches,
outcomes and next steps of the risk and vulnerability assessments need to be appropriately communicated in
order to achieve an improved uptake of results and insights into the decision-making process. We therefore
recommend that the communication of relevant approaches should be considered in the implementation
of all modules of the Vulnerability Sourcebook.
There is only limited information available on the communication of climate risks for project practitioners.
Annex chapter 5.2 presents an overview of existing resources related to climate risk and vulnerability
assessments and communication. However, to the best of our knowledge, no systematic and step-by-step
approach of climate risk communication is available so far.
The main aim of climate risk communication is related to the planning and implementation of the approach,
the identification of ‘key messages’ and findings, the preparation of effective and interesting narratives, the
translation of technical and scientific data into financial and management information for decision makers,
and the promotion of adaptation action. Normally, the climate risk and vulnerability assessment results in
a very dense spectrum of complex information (e. g. maps, impact chains, reports, etc). It is important to
distil and prepare the key messages and findings out of that information and subsequently consider how
and by what means these can best be communicated to users and discussed with them.
For this, we propose a seven-step process for climate risk communication, which includes the preparation
as well as the implementation and evaluation. These steps are presented in more detail below.

Photo 2 – GIZ Bolivia

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 25

 Reflect on a communication
approach which takes
participatory and gender
1
approaches into account

Evaluate the success of Understand the context

7 your communication of your communication 2
approach approach

Implement your Identify objectives and

6 communication approach expected outcomes 3

Elaborate tools & Determine the scope of

5 methodologies your approach 4

Figure 3: The seven steps of a climate risk communication approach.

4.1 Reflect on a communication approach that takes participatory and gender

aspects into account
The results of a climate risk or vulnerability assessment can only achieve full impact if they enable robust
individual and social learning and lead to adaptation actions. For this, they need to be communicated in a
well-reflected way that motivates and enables the intended users to take them into consideration for their
decision making. Therefore, as a basis for the communication approach, the target group and its motivation
need to be well understood beforehand so the communication methods can be selected and implemented
accordingly.
As a fundamental premise of the guidelines proposed here, a two-sided communication approach should
be ensured throughout the entire process, not only during the specific last step on the communication of
the results, but also during the preparation and the implementation of the climate risk and vulnerability
assessment (see modules 1-8 of the Vulnerability Sourcebook).
Together with the stakeholders, consideration should be given to how the communication approach will
ensure the participation of the intended climate service and information users in the communication
process and how their respective levels of knowledge and experience can be taken into account. Moreover,
it should be made sure that information will be presented and discussed in locally relevant terms, in order
to facilitate shared understanding of climate risk. In other words, co-generation of knowledge and social
learning between the communicator(s) and user groups will be key in developing context-appropriate risk
communication approaches.
The earliest possible participation and involvement of intended climate service and information users in the
process promises the greatest success of the communication approach. A participatory approach often turns
out to be a benefit in itself, as it creates a process of continuous reflection and learning.
As already indicated in a study on Environmental Communication for Sustainable Development
commissioned by GTZ in 1999 (Oepen, M., Hamacher, W., and members of the OECD-DAC Working

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 26

 Party on Development Assistance and Environment, 1999):
“Many implementing agencies realize that environmental projects and action plans often have limited
success because the innovation and solutions they offer are not fully ¨owned¨ by the people concerned.
Reasons for this limited success may include basic constraints resulting from the way people think or behave
(…). However, what [persons concerned] perceive is influenced by emotions and socialization, as well as
by reason and knowledge”.
In this regard, confrontational approaches may, often, lead to
¨one-way dissemination [of information with disregard for] understanding, instead of relying on two-way
communication [aimed at] `shared meaning` and `win-win` situations¨.
In cases where non-academic groups and actors are to be involved in the process, approaches may even
go so far as to include their worldviews, norms and philosophies, to reflect on and to overcome potential
communication barriers. This is particularly the case when the intended climate service and information
users have little or no prior experience in dealing with vulnerability and climate risk analysis and, due to this
fact, make use of their experience knowledge and apply coping strategies instead of using expected future
climate trends, projections and resulting risks as a basis for adaptation approaches. For example, localized
and traditional knowledge on climate risks and how to cope and to adapt to them will usually be based on
past experience, without including climate scenarios that show future paths of climate change impacts. This
means that considering perceptions of intended information users often can determine the success or failure
of communication approaches.
In this context, a communication strategy should also consider that significant socio-economic inequalities
can exist between women and men, which limit or prevent access to education, financial assets, technology,
political decision-making, and other valuable resources and can increase property. Inequalities therefore
hamper women’s adaptive capacity and put women at a higher risk of suffering losses and damages
associated with climate change impacts. Climate risk and vulnerability assessments, and corresponding
communication approaches, should therefore provide insight into the specific areas in which women suffer
significantly higher losses and damages than men.

Photo 3. GIZ Brazil

Integrating gender considerations into comprehensive climate risk and vulnerability assessments is therefore
important to avert, minimize and address gender-related losses and damages. The assessment of scientific

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 27

 evidence on gender-specific impacts of climate change reveals, for example, insights on past and potential
future losses and damages specifically for women, while also explaining how social standards create, enhance
and determine both vulnerability and resilience in the context of climate change and are therefore critical
in the communication process.
Hence while preparing the approach for communicating climate risks and vulnerabilities to information
users at different levels, it should be kept in mind that the strategy will need to keep information users
continuously informed: a) opportunities for joint collaboration and reflection in the process; b) data
sources that will be addressed and reflected upon; c) the methodology applied for conducting the risk and
vulnerability assessment; d) its preliminary and final results; and e) potential pathways to address climate
change-related risks and vulnerabilities, so that everyone can be aware of the challenges to be faced and the
desired adaptation results to be achieved in the sector or region. This level of information is also relevant to
ensure accountability to society and partner institutions for the actions to be developed.

4.2 Understand the context of your communication approach

Each approach on climate risk communication takes place in a unique setting. Therefore, the first step is to
reflect on its context, based on several practical considerations, such as:
• The identification and participation of the intended group(s) of users.
• The involvement of stakeholders that will be part of the process.
• The overall availability of data and information that will support your communication strategy.
• The resources available, including the amount of communicator(s) (colleagues, consultants, and
partners involved) dedicated for the communication approach and the time the project can work on
it, including considerations of budget.
• The time available for planning and implementing your communication approach.
In addition to these initial considerations, there should be an awareness of whether the results of the study
should also be made available to the broader public. This will require target group specific yet suitable
and generally comprehensible language, taking into account especially vulnerable population groups
(Grothmann, M., 2017).
Answering these initial questions will help to inform the next steps, such as the objective and the expected
outcomes of the communication approach, the determination of its scope, and the preparation of suitable
tools and methodologies required for its implementation and possible follow-ups. We therefore strongly
recommend to take these initial considerations into account prior to any concrete planning of the
communication strategy.
The following table provides an overview of initial criteria to be taken into consideration and shows how to
proceed in the context of specific scenarios.

Criteria Guiding questions Scenario A Scenario B Scenario C

The users of the information provided Only limited knoledge and information There is insufficient knoledge about
Who is the intended are clearly defined and a detalled needs are available. the information intended users may
Users of user group composed understanding of their knowledge and require and their knowledge and
climate of? What is their level of information needs exists. information needs are unknown.
services and knowledge about Action: A tailored communication Action: A more detailed Action: A more detailed
information climate risks relevant for approach should be prepared. understanding about the focal group understanding about the focal group
their context? should be gained before tailoring the should be gained before tailoring the
communication approach. communication approach.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 28

 Criteria Guiding questions Scenario A Scenario B Scenario C

The communication approach The communication approach The communication strategy is not
Who are the main supports the objectives of supports stakeholders invold mainly yet part od the goals of public:
Landscape stakeholders involved? stakeholders at national govermental at subnational and local levels, e. g. policies or climate change strategies.
of To what extent do they levels, e. g. by contributing to the contributing to the sensibilization of
stakeholders support the preparation implementation of public policies. vulnerable population groups.
/ executing and implementation of a Action: If relevant, involvement of Action: If relevant, involvement of Action: It shoud be clarified in how far
partners communication
stakeholders at subnational and local stakeholders at national the approach will contribute to
approach about climate
levels also should be ensured. Plan governmental levvers aldo should be policies and/or strategies at national,
risks?
and conduct consultation meeting ensured. Plan and conduct subnational and local levels.
well. consultations meeting well.
Data and analysis on vulnerability Data and analyses on vulnerability Vulnerability and/or climate risks data
and/or climate risks are available. and/or climate risks exist but are nor and analysis for the target region are
Are there already These have already been processed prepared for the general, public, and/ not yet available.
Data vulnerability or climate and are publicity accessible. or are not publicty available.
avaibability risk assessments Action: Create an inventory of existing Action: Assess “status quo” - what data Action: Plan sufficient time for data
available that can inform data and information. Incorporate these and information already exists? Make gathering and reorient the assessment
the communication into the communication approach. sure that data and information that is based on feasibility, since data (un)
approach? available can be incorporated into the availability is a main bottlenech leading
communication approach. to delays and incompleteness of
results.
Human and financial resources for Human and financial resources to Very limited possibilities in terms of
the communication approach is firmly prepare and implement a human and financial resources.
What human and calculated into the project planning. communication approach will mainly
Human and financial resources are depend on its context.
Financial available for the Action: Prepare a comprehensive and Action: Gain a concrete Action: Gain a concrete
Resources communication detailed communication approach at understanding of the existing time understanding of the needs of the
approach? the earliest possible stage of project resources, the intended target groups target group on CVR and assess
implementation and the stakeholder landscape to what communication-related
estime the efforts and resoureces contributions the project can make
required.
Project at an early stage of Project about halfway through Project already close to end of
At what atage of project implementation. funding period. funding period.
implementation is the
Time planning of the Action: Elaborate a clear plan about Action: Reflect on how to comfortably Action: Due to the short time trame
Resources communication the time and period of the benefit from the remaining project available, conseder how a
approach taking place? implementation of the communication time for implementing the communication approach can be
approach. communication approach. combined with the dissemination of
project results.

Figure 4: Criteria for analysing the context of the communication approach.

4.3 Identify objectives and expected outcomes

After analyzing and understanding the context of the communication approach, the next step is to identify
its objectives and expected outcomes.
Communication approaches to climate risks can cover a variety of different objectives. However, they are
often aimed at making information (more) accessible or understandable to an intended group of climate
service and information users. For example, an objective of a communication approach could be to improve
farmers’ awareness of climate change impacts on the changing annual cycle of cropping seasons. Another
example of an objective could be to prepare information for urban planners, which would enable them
to design urban infrastructure in a more climate resilient way. The consideration of climate risks in the
curricula for primary school pupils could also be an approach for climate risk communication. Finally, it
could also be a topic to sensitize project partners for better integrating climate risks into political decision-
making processes at national and/or subnational levels.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 29

 As diverse as the objectives may be, the important point is to understand them in the context of their
intended outcome, as often it will not be the communication per se that underlies the approach but rather
the outcome. In general, context-appropriate risk communication approaches support the generation of
knowledge and social learning. Hence, an important question is whether and to what extent the approach
will support a change in climate risk awareness which will eventually foster, or even result in, adaptive
action. Therefore, ’informing someone’ is often understood just as a preliminary stage for achieving the
intended outcome.
Moreover, for the clarification of the objectives, the intended audience should be asked about their
expectation and their own learning target. As shown in Chapter 2, such learning objectives can be quite
diverse. These can range from gaining a stronger understanding of a climate risk assessment in the context
of a particular hazard scenario or region, to motivating national or subnational governments to support
policies that enable vulnerable population groups to adapt and build climate resilience and, ultimately, to
incentivizing these groups to take on and implement individual or collective adaptation measures to reduce
actual levels of climate risk.
Specifically, with regard to Trainings of Trainers (ToT), the content should not only include skills and
knowledge building on how to communicate key messages on climate risk and vulnerability assessment, but
also provide basic knowledge about the process of CRVAs and its contents, opportunities, and limitations.

4.4 Determine the scope of the communication approach

Determining the scope of the communication approach means to define its broader content through
which its objectives and intended outcomes will be achieved. The scope is also constrained by factors
such as available time, financial resources, and characteristics of the audience, as outlined in chapter 4.2.
Planning the scope of the communication approach will also include the identification and documentation
of climate risk and vulnerability data and information (communication “baseline”) that is subject of the
communication. The scope should also allow for some flexibility and necessary updating when relevant.

Photo 4. GIZ Costa Rica

A set of at least seven basic considerations should be considered in the planning of the scope:
• Climate signals: Which climate change-related signals (e. g., changes in temperature, sea level rise,
alternating precipitation patterns) and which reference class (the number of events to which a single-

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 30

 event probability refers to) will be relevant for the communication approach?
• Risks and vulnerabilities: Which climate change-related key risks and vulnerabilities should the
communication approach cover (e. g. increased levels of drought putting at risk agricultural yields
and income of farmers, floods causing damage and destruction to coastal infrastructure, landslides
putting at risk housing at slopes, urban heat islands causing cardiac and circulatory troubles among
vulnerable people)? These should be identified and prioritized over the course of implementing the
Vulnerability Sourcebook modules.
• Territorial and sectoral approach: Will the scope follow a territorial (e. g., national, regional, local) or a
sectoral (e. g., agriculture, water management, urban planning) approach or a combination of both?
• Time horizon: Which time frame will the communication approach refer to (past, current, or future
climate risks)?
• Uncertainty: How to deal with uncertainty and robustness of data in the communication approach
(see Annex 5.1 for more details)?
• Adaptation options: How will adaptation potentials and options be part of the communication
approach?
• Adaptation and mitigation: Can mitigation issues be addressed together with adaptation options
in the communication approach? This may enhance the understanding of possible development
pathways as part of a more holistic communication approach (e. g., agroforestry with its adaptation
but also mitigation potential)?

4.5 Elaborate tools and methodologies for climate risk communication

Communicating the results of a climate risk and vulnerability assessment will only achieve full impact, if the
group of intended climate service and information users is involved in the process from the earliest feasible
moment. This will ensure that results and information are presented in an understandable and interesting
way, aid in the minimisation of misunderstandings, and contributes to lasting levels of awareness. Only
then, results can be communicated in a way that motivates and enables the audience to use the results and
to take identified risks into consideration for decision making. For this, the users, their motivation and
learning needs need to be well understood beforehand, so that communication tools and methodologies
can be prepared accordingly.
Being able to communicate climate risks more effectively will not only mean to convey the results from
a climate risk and vulnerability assessment directly to users. Successful communication will depend to a
large amount on how information and results are being exchanged and discussed. This should include a
variety of ideas and different opinions, helping users to understand nuanced point of views. Also, space and
time should be allowed for reflection, which ultimately leads to greater comprehensiveness of the subject.
Therefore, good communication will help to build rapport with the target groups.
It is important to bear in mind that for different contexts, different methods might work best. While in
certain contexts oral information might work well, other contexts will require written reports. Generally,
using mechanisms that already exist is often the best place to start when communicating new messages as
pointed out in Tompkins et al. (2005). These mechanisms will be explored in more detail below.
Choosing the right tools and degree of participation
As a first step, it should be distinguished between approaches that use participatory (reciprocal) forms of
communication and those that usually do not (for example, websites, podcasts, radio broadcasts).
The results of a climate risk and vulnerability assessment are usually conveyed in the form of figures, charts,

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 31

 and maps. Participatory forms of communication should be given preference.
Non-participatory formats are best suited when the focus of the communication simply lays on conveying
data records and/or on absolute values. However, tools such as websites that contain results from climate risk
assessments can be more effective if they are also linked to a participatory communication approach. The
creation of a dialogue platform between users and generators of climate information should be supported
where possible in such cases. This can additionally help to better clarify and define responsibilities and
institutionalize climate risk and vulnerability assessment processes. Capacity development and information
campaigns aimed at improving the users’ knowledge as well as developing methodological knowledge on
making use of data and information should also accompany such processes.
For example, an open data structure can be a potential tool for managing and for making climate risk
and vulnerability data and information available to target groups. This is proposed in the Open Data
Infrastructure for City Resilience (ODIR): A roadmap showcase and guide (2018), which includes more
than 25 examples of cities from around the world that are innovating with open data to manage disaster risks
and build climate resilience. Another example for establishing climate information platforms includes the
Climate Projections Portal in Brazil. Approaches to prepare the information contained in these platforms
included in both cases the preparation of a series of webinars for the target group. This ensured that data
and information was passed on and discussed and eventually also led to support the production of more
user-friendly approaches for information on climate change scenarios and impacts over time.
Another form of a non-participatory communication approach is the involvement of journalists and tools
used in media. For example, a media briefing may provide an opportunity for dialogue and engagement
between key stakeholders and media representatives. Many media outlets, especially in developing countries,
still do not know about climate risk assessments and government strategies for building climate resilience.
A media briefing can bring to light the need for government to engage more regularly with the media
through press conferences, or regular briefings and updates. Such briefing should be accompanied by clear
and easy visualizations/ infographics which help to attract media attention, together with
clear messages. This can also provide a good opportunity for national/subnational
government to continue engaging with the public through various media
outlets and thereby increase the public’s understanding of climate risk
assessment.
We therefore recommend, that key stakeholders initiate more
programs and incentives to cater for various audiences and to provide
a variety of engaging content on climate risk assessments. These
can then be easily distributed on social media or used in various
awareness and outreach initiatives projects or programs for climate
risk assessment. For instance, expositions, artwork, short videos,
songs, and other creative outlets including competitions may be
used as incentives to encourage dialogue, publicize research, and to
raise more awareness on climate risk assessments. Having programs
that would regularly raise awareness would help a lot more and
would also be more sustainable in distributing messages of climate
risk assessments and solutions to diverse audiences. Programs may
range from spot advertisements to photographs, real-life stories, radio
call-in shows, television panels, or a collection of articles and op-eds. Various
stakeholders may also be encouraged to bring solutions to the various climate
risks challenges facing different sectors such as fisheries, agriculture, water and so
forth. Websites, blogs, and other means of awareness raising, and dissemination may also be
explored to ensure everyone is reached when communicating key insights of a climate risk assessment.
A special case to consider is when climate risks are conveyed to the target group on site in a direct and

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 32

 participatory way, but without resorting to written material. This is often
seen in street theatre or artists performances during events, such as fairs,
conferences, congresses, etc. It should be noted, however, that with
such approaches, the consideration of the existing knowledge of
the public will only be possible to a very limited extent and the
required and wanted co-creation is also reduced. While without
doubt such methods can generate lasting impressions on
audiences, we propose such approaches as complementary,
but not stand-alone, options in communication strategies.
Elaborating figures, charts, and maps
As a second step, the elaboration of figures, maps and charts
should be considered in the communication approach. A
technically correct elaboration of such tools is given in more
detail in Module 8 of the Vulnerability Sourcebook (page 143
onwards), which aims at the drafting of the assessment report
and on presenting the findings of the assessment (GIZ, adelphi,
EURAC, 2014).
In fact, the assessment report of the climate risk and vulnerability
assessment should serve as the most important basis for the development of all
communication-related tools and methodologies: This is because the report will contain all the
essential background information, contents and results that are relevant for the communication approach.
All in all, the assessment report should consist of four central parts, i. e. a) context and objectives, b)
methodology and implementation, c) findings, and d) conclusions and lessons learnt.
Since the technical approach to implementing the assessment should also be described in the report, this
document is thus at the interface between this module (in which, as already mentioned, the users of climate
services and information should have already been involved as far as possible) and the communication with
or to the relevant actors and groups. Most importantly, as also mentioned in the Vulnerability Sourcebook,
the style and language of the report should be appropriate to the audience.
Preparing methodological approaches for communication
The third step is to prepare appropriate methodological approaches for communicating the findings and
results of the climate risk and vulnerability assessment.
As described in the Vulnerability Sourcebook, maps, diagrams and graphs are valuable and compelling tools
for illustrating assessment findings. They represent high-level views of data and can aid in the understanding
of the results. There are various ways to graphically map the results of the assessment. While map-based
representations are recommended for spatial assessments, climate impact maps can be communicated
more easily if the climate, spatial exposure, and sensitivity parameters included in the assessment are also
mapped. The spatial resolution of all data should be taken into consideration for map-based communication
approaches (see page 35 onwards) (Umweltbundesamt, 2017).
Same as maps, impact chains also serve as a very relevant communication tool to facilitate discussions
on climate risks, vulnerabilities, and adaptation. As visual outputs they make complex situations and
relationships easier to understand (GIZ & EURAC, 2019).
However, while using maps, diagrams and graphs, concrete and emotionally interesting ones should
be shown and discussed. When preparing these, one should ask about the relevance and the intention
associated with showing each of them, such as: What is the communicative value of each of those to be
presented and what are the key messages associated with them? To what extent is the information they
contain relevant to the target group?

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 33

 Moreover, there should be awareness that past experiences of climate change can be misleading and do
not correspond to more recent climate scenarios. At the same time, these scenarios may not be directly
perceptible to the target group. The integration of personal stories and experiences of individuals or
population groups (narratives) affected by climate risks and how to (successfully) deal with them can be a
possible and promising way to show the relevance of the topic for users and make results from a climate risk
and vulnerability assessment understandable.

Photo 5. GIZ Kazakhstan

If feasible, assigning costs and numbers (e. g., by climate economic modelling) to climate change impacts
can raise another profile of adaptation, for providing more impetus towards ambitious action on adaptation.
For example, macroeconomic models provide additional evaluations of adaptation measures, such as in
terms of GDP and employment effects for economic sectors and the whole economy and generate insights
into broader and inter-sectoral economic impacts. Therefore, they can serve as a basis to advocate on the
urgency of acting on/prioritizing climate adaptation. This is important because given limited resources
available, adaptation mainstreaming may appear to ‘compete’ with various other development priorities
(e. g., poverty reduction, social inclusion, mitigation, disaster risks reduction, biodiversity conservation).
While the use of macroeconomic modelling for the assessment of climate risks highly depends on the
corresponding demand from public policy makers, creating interest for understanding the links between
economic development and climate change can be a positive side effect of communication efforts.
It then makes sense to communicate results in a relatively easy way to grasp and ‘actionable’ messages such
as “if you take action in sector x, the GDP will increase by y% by 2050 compared to a scenario without
adaptation”, or “if you take the following adaptation action x, you can avoid the estimated damage of floods
by y% of the GDP by 2050”. Such messages can help inform user groups about the aggregate implications
of climate change and the role of climate adaptation measures in minimizing or avoiding climate change
damages. This is particularly useful, because to gain some traction, climate adaptation needs to speak to the
ministries with budgetary power (often the ministries of finance, planning and economy). These ministries
tend to have strong convening and decision-making powers. Results from climate economic models help
translate the impacts of changes in climate on the various economic activities of a country and the benefits
of adaptation measures in quantitative terms in such a way that they are tailored to the specific needs of
these ministries.
Combining quantitative information, such as on costs and numbers, with other tools and qualitative
analysis facilitates communication processes. Qualitative approaches will be important to cover individual

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 34

 factors of vulnerability, which otherwise would be missing in the communication approach. To sum up and
communicate results, a qualitative interpretation of the complex aspect of an aggregated risk can be more
precise and useable than a highly aggregated risk map (GIZ & EURAC, 2019). Once more, qualitative
aspects will also be useful for integrating local experience and narratives.
A mix of quantitative and qualitative information is therefore important to obtain a more nuanced picture
of climate change impacts1. It should be borne in mind, however, that qualitative and quantitative results
require presentation forms of their own. Calculated climate impacts should be communicated independently
from their evaluation. Similarly, each element of climate risk, including results on climate impacts, adaptive
capacity and vulnerability should also be communicated separately (Umweltbundesamt, 2017).

Photo 6. GIZ Thailand

However, despite all efforts, in many cases communication may entail a high degree of complexity. We
should bear in mind that despite all recent progresses in climate science, great uncertainties can be associated
with climate scenarios, hence the range of possible climate futures remains high (Grothmann, 2017). One
major challenge is the common expectation that risk should follow a probabilistic approach (=likelihood of
a specific impact) while this is hardly possible in practice (GIZ & EURAC, 2019).
At this point, it will be important to achieve the highest possible level of confidence in the communication
of data and results, while at the same time pointing out certainties and uncertainties. When communicating
results of climate-related assessment findings, communicating clearly the degree of confidence in these is a
challenge. Once again, the best way to achieve this is through vivid and interactive forms of communication.
While uncertainty can almost never be completely excluded, the level of uncertainty on certain information
can help to either assess the level of urgency for action, or for further research. However, as a general guide,
the following assumption applies: the more sources agree on an outcome or trend of climate scenarios
or assessment, the higher the agreement. The agreement can usually be determined via data analysis and
should therefore be considered in the methodology for the communication approach. Annex 5.1 provides
a participatory step-by-step approach for communicating the degree of confidence in climate risk and
vulnerability assessment findings, based on a recent publication by Becher, Schlönvoigt, Baumert, Lotzen
& Borges (2019).

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 35

 4.6 Implement your communication approach
Generally, when it comes to the implementation of the communication approach, it should be borne in
mind that the process should be based on suitable, generally comprehensible language and representation
(Umweltbundesamt, 2017:36). Both the objectives and the underlying methodology and concept should
be explained well to all information users. Public interest and awareness will greatly increase if climate risk
messages are contextualized to the local context and available in the local language. Allowing room for
traditional knowledge and narratives to be woven into the key messages of climate risk assessment will also
be very helpful. This will ensure more engagement, understanding, and ongoing dialogue on climate risk
assessment and adaptation as a solution to increase resilience.
To which extent adaptation options should be integrated into the communication will depend on the
scope and the context of the approach. Some studies suggest linking the two processes of conducting the
climate risk assessment and identification of adaptation measures, which often also is a preferred option of
practitioners planning a climate risk assessment. Yet planning adaptation measures is a time and resource
TOGO

RISQUE,
intensive process on its own. Even if a climate risk assessmentDANGER, VULNÉRABILITÉ
serves as a communication tool to support
the actual adaptation process, it will not directlyRELATIFS AU PALUDISME� (GIZ, 2018:6).
reveal all the necessary adaptation options

CINKASSE

TONE
Dapaong KPENDJAL

TANDJOARE

OTI
Sansanné-Mango

KERAN
Élevé 1

0,76
DOUFELGOU
BINAH
DANKPEN

KOZAH
Kara

ASSOLI
BASSAR

TCHAOUDJO 0,41
Sokodé
Faible
0
PLAINE DE MO TCHAMBA DANGER
SOTOUBOUA

BLITTA
EST-MONO

Élevé 1
AKEBOU
0,46 ANIE

WAWA
Atakpamé
AMOU OGOU Élevé 1

DANYI 0,33
MOYEN-MONO
KPELE 3

4 HAHO
KLOTO
Kpalimé
AGOU
YOTO

0,3 ZIO 5
AVE BAS-MONO
0,13
Faible Tsévié VO
2
0 1 LACS
GOLFE
Faible 0

RISQUE Combinaison du danger et de la DISTRICT II

vulnérabilité pour le présent DISTRICT V VULNÉRABILITÉ
1 2 3 4 5

Photo 7. GIZ Togo

LOCALISATION DESCRIPTION | LÉGENDE SOURCES DES DONNÉES | RÉFÉRENCES
Considering all the previous steps from the guideline should allow a successful implementation of the
Burkina Faso Les indicateurs montrent le danger, la vulnérabilité et le Données utilisées: DHIS2, INSEED, ISIMIP, Copernicus/Vito),

communication approach. From the experience of the projects involved in the development of the guideline, risque relatifs au paludisme au niveau de la préfecture. Ensemble CORDEX AFRICA avec biais corrigés (SMHI)
Les cinq préfectures ayant le niveau le plus élevé sont
Benin
marquées en jaune.

the implementation can include a rather short one-time webinar format as well as the format of a whole
Ghana
Togo Nigeria

Région Préfecture
Plus haut 5
Préfectures
La carte a été réalisée dans le cadre du Projet d'appui au
Plan National Climat (APNC).

workshop series with the information users in the field, which can extend over several steps and a period of Risque de paludisme

several weeks, or even months.

0 10 20 30 40
Projection locale: UTM Zone 31N, Datum: WGS 84
0,30 0,33

Danger de paludisme
0,36 0,39 0,43 0,46

Kilomètres Projection géographique: Lat/Lon, Datum: WGS 84

Echelle 1:4.500.000 format A3
Analyse et Cartographie: Spatial Services 0,41 0,48 0,55 0,62 0,69 0,76
19 septembre 2019 © adelphi / Z_GIS / Spatial Services
Vulnérabilité au paludisme

0,13 0,17 0,21 0,25 0,29 0,33

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 36

 It is also possible to tailor specific aspects of the climate risk and vulnerability analysis to specific user
groups. For example, different workshop formats for public sector stakeholders and with private sector
stakeholders have proven effective in the past. In any case, it should be made sure that relevant decision-
makers will be sufficiently integrated in the communication.
As suggested before, another important factor to think about: who will be presenting the outcomes of the
climate risk and vulnerability assessment? If methodological aspects shall be emphasised, a member of the
implementation team makes a good ambassador. But if the aim is to contribute results to an on-going
policy process, one might want to consider an influential stakeholder associated with the assessment (GIZ,
2015:147), hence bringing together stakeholders from various levels.
Finally, it should be remembered to include the names and/or logos of assessment participants; this can
improve the credibility and impact of results.

4.7 Evaluate the success of the communication approach

Once the communication approach has been implemented, it can be helpful to evaluate its effects and
successes for contributing to broader knowledge management and experience building about climate risk
communication. This will help to achieving a broader understanding of what went well in the preparation
and implementation of the approach and to draw conclusions about what can be improved in future
approaches.
However, since the communication aspect will normally follow an integrated approach in CRVA, which
in turn is integrated into a broader project context, we recommend a systematic way of reflecting upon
the success of the strategy. To this end, the Working Party on Aid Evaluation (WP-EV) of OECD´s
Development Assistance Committee (OECD-DAC) suggests five criteria for evaluating results (OECD,
2010):
• Relevance: ¨The extent to which the objectives of
a development intervention are consistent
with beneficiaries’ requirements, country
needs, global priorities and partners’ and
donors’ policies¨ (ibid:32).
• Efficiency: ¨A measure of how
economically resources/inputs
(funds, expertise, time, etc.) are
converted to results¨ (ibid.:21).
• Effectiveness: ¨The extent
to which the development
intervention’s objectives were
achieved, or are expected to be
achieved, taking into account
their relative importance¨
(ibid:20).
• Impacts: ¨Positive and negative,
primary and secondary long-
term effects produced by a
development intervention, directly
or indirectly, intended or unintended¨
(ibid:24).
• Sustainability: ¨The continuation of benefits

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 37

 from a development intervention after major development assistance has been completed¨ (ibid:36).
We recommend concluding the communication approach with a follow-up session (or as concluding part
of the last session of the exchange) and conducting a joint evaluation with the target audience, in which the
following set of key questions should be answered:
a. Relevance of the approach: According to the perception of CRVA participants, was the information
required by data users and/or the target group to better understand the outcomes of the CRVA? Was
the communication approach in line with the country´s climate risk-related policies and strategies?
Was it relevant for the success of the CRVA itself?
a. Efficiency of the approach: According to the perception of participants, what worked well in the
implementation of the communication approach? Was the approach sufficiently participatory?
Was the approach sufficiently supported by relevant stakeholders? Were the methodology and
tools appropriate? Was the approach satisfactory in considering gender aspects and the interests of
vulnerable groups? Was the timeframe adequate to address all relevant aspects of the climate risk and
vulnerability assessment? Have all demands and questions been adequately addressed and answered?
a. Effectiveness: Has the purpose been achieved? Has knowledge of participants been adequately
considered in the discussions and results? Has information provided contributed to increased
knowledge of the participants? How have knowledge levels of participants about climate risks
changed, based on information provided and discussed?
a. Impacts: Based on the information provided about the results of the climate risk and vulnerability
assessment, do participants feel able to take informed decisions about planning and putting into
place adaptive action? If yes, how?
a. Sustainability: Will results and impacts of the communication approach continue to be reflected
upon, and be included into ongoing decision-making processes and future adaptive action?
In summary, it is vital to evaluate the communication approach to assess its success and impacts and,
therefore, to contribute to a broader knowledge management and experience building on climate risk
communication.
As we have seen, communicating climate risks remains a complex issue, but it is crucial for nurturing the
use and application of the CRVA results for adaptation purposes. In the future it will be important to bring
together more information about the success and results of climate risk-related communication approaches
and this guideline provides a first basis for it.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 38

Chapter 5: Annexes

Communicating the degree of confidence in CRVA findings: A

participatory step-by-step approach
Further information and resources on conducting climate risk
& vulnerability assessments

Contents 39
 Chapter 5: Annexes

5.1 Communicating the degree of confidence in CRVA findings: A participatory

step-by-step approach
When communicating results of climate-related assessment findings to users of climate services and
information, clearly communicating the degree of confidence in these remains a challenge. The understanding
of the sources of uncertainty affecting future climate change projections has not substantially changed since
the fourth assessment report (AR4) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), but many
experiments and studies since then have proceeded to explore and characterize those uncertainties further.
A full characterization, qualitative and even more so quantitative, involves much more than a measure of
the range of model outcomes, because additional sources of information (e. g., observational constraints,
model evaluation, expert judgement) lead us to expect that the uncertainty around the future climate state
does not coincide straightforwardly with those ranges (Collins et al., 2013:1035f.).
Describing the degree of confidence can play a relevant role when delivering information for decision-
making. While uncertainty can almost never be completely excluded, the level of uncertainty on certain
information can help to either assess the level of urgency for action, or for further research.
One approach to determine the certainty are statistical methods and models, which follow a probabilistic
approach. This is often the approach preferred by decision-makers, as it delivers a straightforward means
to assess the topic.
However, this type of information is not always available, or only reveals parts of the picture. When this
is the case, describing clearly potential future changes – e. g., by using both quantitative and qualitative
scenarios – can be used to provide insights on what to expect. Decisions can then be taken based on that
information.
The IPCC developed in its fifth assessment report (AR5) a common approach to evaluate and communicate
the degree of certainty in a clear forward way. For this, they rely on two qualitative metrics to communicate
the degree of certainty in their findings:
• The agreement of the used sources on the outcome: the more sources agree on an outcome or trend,
the higher the agreement is. The agreement can usually be determined via data analysis.
• Confidence in the sources used to come to a finding, based on the consistency, quality, amount,
and type of used sources. The confidence can be assessed via model results and/or statistical analysis,
or expert judgement. Generally, evidence is most robust when there are multiple, consistent, and
independent sources of evidence with a high quality.
Each finding for both metrics can be placed on a qualitative or quantitative scale. The higher the agreement
and evidence are, the higher the confidence in findings will be (see also figure 4).

High agreement High agreement High agreement

Limited evidence Medium evidence Robust evidence
Agreement =>

Medium agreement Medium agreement Medium agreement

Limited evidence Medium evidence Robust evidence

Low agreement Low agreement Low agreement

Limited evidence Medium evidence Robust evidence
Confidence
scale
Evidence (type, amount, quality, consistency) =>

Figure 5: A depiction of evidence and agreement statements and their relationship

to confidence (adapted from Mastrandrea et al., 2010:3).

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 40

 The following stepwise approach (adapted from Becher, Schlönvoigt, Baumert, Lotzen & Borges (2019))
allows practitioners to determine both the evidence and agreement level of their findings in a participatory
way with (different groups of ) users of climate services and information.
• Step 1: Identify the sources of information
The first step is to collect all sources of information to be evaluated for climate risk and vulnerability
assessment. These can be climate data, workshop results, interviews, articles, or other sources. Sources
according to the types of information they are referring to may be categorized (e. g. climate signals for
different climate parameter, root causes for vulnerability, exposure). While performing this exercise category
by category, a level of “high” or “low” confidence should be attributed to each of the sources.
• Step 2: Determine the level of robustness of information sources
In a second step, a matrix should be discussed and filled – jointly with the group of information users, as far
as possible - pursuing to determine how robust sources of information are, regarding their levels of evidence
(see Figure 5, results are for illustration purposes only):
• Information about the category addressed: As some sources can deliver information for different
categories (e. g., a newspaper article could deliver information on precipitation and vulnerability of
the local population), they may be used for multiple categories.
• Type of data: describe what type of data or information the source is delivering, which contributes
to the findings for this category.
• Source of the data: briefly describe the source of your data. As some sources are more reliable than
others, this is already an indicator of confidence.
• Quality of the data: assess – qualitatively or quantitatively – the quality of the data that individual
sources deliver. To do so, answer to questions like “Has the information been generated following
the state of the art?”; “Is the information well applicable for the region in question?”; “Is there any
information missing?”; “Did instruments used for data recording follow technical standards?”; and
“Is meta data provided”?
• Consistency of the data: describe if the data and information presented by this source is consistent,
both regarding the number of sources, and the methodology used.
• Level of robustness: for each source, assess the level of robustness of available data and information,
using the assessment performed before. The level of robustness can be described qualitatively, or in a
scale (for this example, we use a scale from 1 (not robust at all) to 7 (extremely robust)).
•
Information Type Source Quality Consistency Level of
category of data of the data of the data of the data robustness

Historical National Meteorological Good quality, 53 years of Good consistency, no 7 (extremely robust)
weather data Institute data with no gaps, change in location on
measuring 4 times per measuring equipment
¨Annual day
precipitation¨
Global Climate Met Office UK Good quality, although Good consistency, but 5 (robust)
Models: HadGEM2, only in grids of 150x150 only three models and
MIROC, and CanCM4, Km one scenario
for RCP 4.5

Figure 6: Matrix to define the robustness of climate data and sources (adapted
from Becher, Schlönvoigt, Baumert, Lotzen & Borges, 2019).

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 41

 • Step 3: Determine the level of confidence
The following matrix allows to assess the level of confidence in the findings. The matrix can be filled again
category by category, to allow for comparison:
1. Place all sources of data assessed in the matrix before on a column for itself. Transfer also the level of
robustness identified before.
2. For each category of data assess what kind of trend it delivers for your system of interest, as shown
in the matrix below. The trend refers to the type of information which is relevant to the category.
e. g., categories related to climate signals could show trends towards higher or lower temperatures,
while categories targeting sensitivity could show trends towards higher or lower sensitivity. Use “+1”
for a trend to increase, “-1” for a trend to decrease, and “0” for no trend of change for the assessed
parameter. Include a written description to justify your choice.
Climate trends and Climate outcomes: The reason of focusing on trends rather than final outcomes has to
do with the fact that climate-related information rarely shows 100 % concordance, what can be the result
of using different climate models or scenarios or gathering different type of data. For this reason, focusing
on trends is at least an indicator for tendencies in agreement.
3. Sum up the weighted number for each source within each category, counting increasing trends as
positive, and decreasing trends as negative. When there is no trend or there is uncertainty about the
trend, this is not counted.
4. Sum up all calculated figures for each category.
5. Finally, compare final scores for each category. The higher the score (both negatively and positively),
the stronger the confidence towards the shown trend can be considered.
6. When comparing the different categories, the confidence – as the result of analyzing both the evidence
and agreement in trend – of the findings on different categories can be assessed. The confidence can
be described either qualitatively, or on a scale (e. g. 1 (not confident regarding the findings for this
category) to 7 (extremely confident regarding the findings for this category).

Global Climate
Information Historical weather Review of local confidence (final
Models, HadGEM2, Literature review (6)
category data (7) newspapers (3) score)
for RCP 4.5 (4)

¨Annual precipitation¨ +1 (an average of 0 (no perceived -1 (perceived +1 (an average of 0,3 7+0-3+6 = 10
+0,2 mm/year) change) reduction of mm/year until 2050)
precipitation in the Confidence in the
last years) trend: 5

(+1)*7 = +7 0*4 = 0 (-1)*3 = -3 (+1)*6 = +6

¨Exposure of critical ... ... ... ... +18

infrastructure to
extreme emperatures¨ Confidence in the
trend: 6

Figure 7: Matrix to define the level of confidence in trends for different hazard-related
categories (adapted from Becher, Schlönvoigt, Baumert, Lotzen & Borges, 2019).

The outcome of this exercise can be communicated in very different ways, depending on the goal of the
communication, the target audience, but also on the resources available for this (see also chapter 4.).

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 42

 5.2 Further information and resources on conducting climate risk &
vulnerability assessments
GIZ Vulnerability Sourcebook
The GIZ Vulnerability Sourcebook, published in 2014, offers a concept and guidelines for standardized
vulnerability assessments, based on the fourth assessment report (AR4) of the IPCC. The Vulnerability
Sourcebook is written for users with a basic understanding of the concept of vulnerability and methods
for dealing with it. The Vulnerability Sourcebook is particularly concerned with providing readily
understandable, user-friendly guidance in the development and implementation of vulnerability
assessments. It acknowledges the specific conditions which prevail in developing countries – requirements as
well as constraints. The Vulnerability Sourcebook is particularly helpful in cases which require a consistent
approach to information gathering on climate change vulnerability, and the further use of this information
for adaptation and development planning. The Vulnerability Sourcebook can be applied at different stages
of adaptation planning from high-level identification of key vulnerabilities to more in-depth analysis of
particular vulnerabilities, as well as the development of concrete adaptation measures or strategies and
monitoring and evaluation of adaptation interventions. Its applicability to a wide range of topics means the
Vulnerability Sourcebook is not limited to one sector or spatial level but can be used in various contexts.
The GIZ Vulnerability Sourcebook can be accessed online here: [Link]
download/va/vulnerability-guides-manuals-reports/vuln_source_2017_EN.pdf
GIZ Risk Supplement to the Vulnerability Sourcebook
The GIZ Risk Supplement to the Vulnerability Sourcebook, published in 2017, introduces the Fifth IPCC
Assessment Report (AR5) risk concept and provides guidelines on how to conduct risk assessments using the
Vulnerability Sourcebook`s approach. While the Vulnerability Sourcebook provides step-by-step guidelines
to conduct robust vulnerability assessments according to the IPCC concept of vulnerability, AR5 moves
from focusing on vulnerability to focusing on risk of climate-related impacts that may harm a system. To
account for this change, this Risk Supplement has been developed.
The GIZ Risk Supplement to the Vulnerability Sourcebook can be accessed online here: https://
[Link]/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/GIZ-2017_Risk-Supplement-to-the-
[Link]
GIZ Climate Risk Assessment for Ecosystem-based Adaptation
The GIZ Climate Risk manual for Assessment for Ecosystem-based Adaptation, published in 2018, was
commissioned by the Global Project ‘Mainstreaming EbA – Strengthening Ecosystem-based Adaptation
in Planning and Decision-Making Processes on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Environment, Nature
Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) under its International Climate Initiative (IKI). The Guidebook
provides guidance on how to systematically consider ecosystem-based solutions in the context of climate
risk assessments. It demonstrates how to identify potential adaptation measures, perform related (spatial)
planning, and utilise the risk assessment for monitoring and evaluation (M&E) after actions have been
implemented.
The GIZ Climate Risk manual for Assessment for Ecosystem-based Adaptation can be accessed online here:
[Link]
[Link]
GIZ Guidance note for planning, contracting and effective backstopping of a Climate Risk and
Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA)
The aim of this guidance note, published in 2019, is to support GIZ staff in planning, tendering and
backstopping a Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA). Recommendation, tips and tricks

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 43

 given in the guidance are mainly referring to the approach for a CRVA presented by the GIZ Vulnerability
Sourcebook, its Risk Supplement and the Guidebook on Climate Risk Assessment for Ecosystem-based
Adaptation (EbA).
CRA-Method Search Engine ¨CRAMSE¨
The CRA-Method Search Engine ¨CRAMSE¨, launched in 2021, aims to support practitioners in
identifying methods that fit best for their specific interests. It was developed by the BMZ commissioned
GIZ ¨Global Programme of Risk Assessment and Management for Adaptation to Climate Change (Loss
and Damage)¨ and builds on a database encompassing more than 120 CRA methods. A wide range of
filters, including hazards considered, economic sectors covered or the inclusion of non-economic Loss and
Damage (NELD) can be applied.
The CRA-Method Search Engine ¨CRAMSE¨ can be accessed online here: [Link]
[Link]/
GIZ guidance on Tailor made training courses on climate change adaptation
Titled as ¨cookbook¨, GIZ publication on tailor made training courses on climate change adaptation,
launched in 2014, aims at different formats and target groups. The guidance was developed by the
Inventory of Methods for Adaptation to Climate Change (IMACC) project. The methodology described
in the publication is based on an OECD Policy Guidance, Integrating Climate Change Adaptation into
Development Cooperation, published in 2009. Its modular structure enables it to be customised to a
multiplicity of training conditions and expectations. The guidance includes a presentation on how to
methodologically prepare practitioner trainings with a focus on climate information.
The GIZ guidance on Tailor made training courses on climate change adaptation can be accessed online
here: [Link]
courses_on_CCA_-_A_Cookbook.pdf

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Contents 44

 Bibliography
Becher, M.; Schlönvoigt, A.-K.; Baumert, N.; Lotzen, K. and Borges, P. (2019): Enhancing Climate Services
for Infrastructure Investments (CSI), Trainee Handbook. Eschborn and Bonn: GIZ.
European Commission, Directorate-General for Research and Innovation; Jacob, D.; Runge, T.; Street,
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