It will help us to prepare for the expected impacts of climate change, such as flooding, heat waves, droughts and extreme weather events, and gives us the best chance to take advantage of any opportunities which may be presented as a result of these changes.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) defines adaptation as "adjustments in natural or human systems in response to actual or expected climatic stimuli or their effects, which moderate harm or exploit beneficial opportunities".

• Different types of adaptive actions

  There are two main types of actions which help us to adapt to future changes in climate; Building Adaptive Capacity and Delivering Adaptive Actions.

• How is Dorset adapting to climate change?

  Many aspects of our lives and lifestyles will be affected by climate change. Across Dorset we are likely to experience a wide range of impacts on our communities, economy, infrastructure and natural environment.