We need to talk about maladaptation

Climate adaptation actions should help, not harm. However, adaptation efforts can backfire, increasing vulnerability to climate change—a phenomenon known as maladaptation. In this essay, we argue that maladaptation dialogues—inclusive and deliberate conversations about negative consequences and failures of adaptation actions, especially among adaptation professionals—offer unique benefits for advancing climate adaptation practice. When approached deliberately, dialogue can promote shared understanding, learning, and inclusive adaptation processes, helping prevent and respond to climate adaptation gone awry. Further, by integrating conversations about maladaptation into the adaptation cycle, we can enhance adaptation efforts, leading to more innovative and resilient adaptation organizations.