The principle of mitigation and adaptation to climate change in international environmental law

The principle of mitigation and adaptation to climate change is an integral part of modern international environmental law. International acts have consolidated the obligation of States to simultaneously combat the primary cause of climate change (excessive greenhouse gas emissions) and take measures to adapt to its effects that are already coming. While initially the emphasis was on mitigation, adaptation has now taken an equal place, as evidenced by both contractual norms and the growing number of national adaptation plans in different countries. The principle under study includes specific commitments to reduce emissions, plan adaptation actions, and provide international support and cooperation. In recent decisions, international courts and tribunals have actually recognized the responsibility of States for non-compliance with climate obligations. For Russia, the implementation of the principle of mitigation and adaptation is both the fulfillment of global commitments and the solution of internal development challenges. Russia has already felt the effects of warming (extreme temperatures, wildfires), so adaptation is turning from an abstract concept into concrete work on the ground. At the same time, economic realities and technological trends dictate the transition to low-carbon solutions, energy efficiency and innovation – that is, to mitigate the burden on the climate. National policy tends to take both vectors into account, although not always consistently.

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