Climate Compatible Development (CCD) refers to an integrated development strategy that takes the threat posed by climate change seriously. In the words of the originators of the term it is “development that minimises the harm caused by climate impacts, while maximising the many human development opportunities presented by a low emissions, more resilient, future” (Mitchell and Maxwell 2010). Related terms such as ‘climate proofing’, ‘climate smart’ and ‘climate change adaptation mainstreaming’ apply to adaptation (preparing for the effects of climate change) and to development. CCD however goes a step further and includes mitigation strategies in the mix of the three dimensions of adaptation, mitigation and development. Climate compatible development therefore asks policy makers to consider ‘triple win’ strategies that encourage low emissions development that in turn will lead to a low carbon climate resilient development (Mitchell and Maxwell 2010).
