Climate adaptation is a shared responsibility
The government holds the overall responsibility for regulating climate adaptation in Denmark, which includes drafting laws, regulations, and guidelines, as well as coordinating national efforts across governmental authorities. The national effort covers everything from research on climate developments in Denmark to coastal protection along the western coast of Jutland.
Municipalities are responsible for planning and prioritizing climate adaptation efforts, including mapping areas at risk of flooding and erosion, and granting permits for specific projects. Municipalities can also integrate climate adaptation into the wastewater management plan. The wastewater management plan outlines how wastewater, rainwater, and surface water will be handled in the municipality, helping to guide wastewater companies' work on climate adaptation.
For example, municipalities are responsible for land-use planning, coastal protection, stream maintenance and projects, environmental and natural resources management, wastewater handling, rainwater management, groundwater protection, drinking water, and more. All these areas impact the water cycle. It is therefore the municipality's responsibility to ensure that the influence of climate adaptation projects on water, nature, and the environment is considered.
Municipalities often collaborate with residents, businesses, urban developers, associations, and other stakeholders to create holistic climate adaptation solutions.
If you, as a citizen, would like to learn more about how climate adaptation projects are being managed in your local area, you should contact your municipality.
Responsibilities of wastewater companies, property owners, and emergency services
Wastewater companies are responsible for carrying out the planned investments in climate adaptation as outlined in the wastewater management plan.
Property owners are generally responsible for protecting their property from damage caused by flooding, including flooding from the sea and groundwater. This applies to both private and public property owners.
If, as a property owner, you are considering implementing climate adaptation measures on your property, you must contact your municipality to ensure the necessary permits are in place before starting the project.
Emergency services provide assistance during extreme weather events that pose a threat to people, animals, and economic assets. The emergency services operate on two levels: the municipal fire department is the first responder, but they can be assisted by the Danish Emergency Management Agency in larger-scale operations. Additionally, specific storm surge response teams have been established along the Wadden Sea and the central part of the Jutland west coast.
Is climate adaptation regulated by law?
There is no specific climate law in Denmark, but there are several laws and regulations that address different aspects of the water cycle. In addition, like all construction projects, climate adaptation initiatives must consider environmental and nature conservation regulations.