A new report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) outlines the lack of climate change adaptation strategies being implemented in both developed and developing countries.

Down to Earth looks at the findings of the report, titled Climate Change 2014: Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability, which shows considerable variation across different regions of the world in the extent to which adaptation processes, practices and policy have been studied and implemented.

The report does point to some positive actions, such as early warning systems that are helping communities adapt to the changing climate and successful community-based initiatives.

“In Asia, adaptation is being facilitated in some areas through mainstreaming climate adaptation action into sub-national development planning, crop insurance, early warning systems, integrated water resources management, agroforestry and coastal reforestation of mangroves.”

While Europe and Australia have had extensive research programs on climate change adaptation, only a few strategies have been implemented, according to the report.

In large parts of Asia, Africa and Central and South Americas, there is only sparse data on climate change impacts. Research in Africa and Asia has been dominated by international partners and relies heavily on case studies of community-based adaptation. Africa also suffers from a lack of implementation of plans, and most planned adaptation work is being undertaken under pilot programs.

Read the full story: Developed and developing world in same boat

Download the summary for policy makers: Climate Change 2014: Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability