WELLINGTON, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand unveiled its first National Adaptation Framework on Thursday to tackle the growing risks of climate change, including floods and storms.
"New Zealand faces growing risks from floods, storms and other natural hazards. We need our country and economy to be resilient and well-prepared," Climate Change Minister Simon Watts said.
The framework aims to build resilience, support economic growth, and minimize societal costs amid rising natural hazards, according to a government statement.
The framework is structured around four pillars, including sharing risks and response information, clarifying roles and responsibilities, investing in risk reduction, and establishing cost-sharing mechanisms before and after events.
New Zealand's first-ever National Flood Map, expected to be released by 2027, will show current and future flood risks to help people and organizations understand and prepare for these threats, Watts said.
Legislation will require local governments in high-priority areas to develop adaptation plans, he said.
"The new adaptation plans will help people understand what the risks are, how this will be managed, and what investment will happen in their area, so people know what to expect," he added. ■