Abstract

Most developing countries are expected to be at increased risks of hydrological extremes due to the growing impact of climate change. Because of these concerns, developing countries have already started searching for appropriate solutions. Local actors as drivers must enhance adaptation opportunities for long-term climate change responses. In addition, cities need to govern and manage natural resources, people, and infrastructure as an integrated entity. This study looks at incorporating water sensitive planning practices to enhance climate change impact adaptation. A collaborative institutional model recognised as locally operative and guided nationally could provide the mechanism for governing climate adaptation. The theory of Multi-level Governance is used as a framework for working up local, regional, and national level policies, strategies, and programmes. Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Christchurch, New Zealand, will be considered as case studies in undertaking this research process.