Climate change adaptation: The missing component in the local climate change action plans of Turkish metropolitan municipalities

Climate change adaptation is crucial for urban resilience, particularly in developing countries vulnerable to extreme weather. In Turkey, metropolitan municipalities, housing 80 % of the population, have voluntarily developed Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs) to address mitigation and adaptation challenges, despite the lack of a legal mandate. This study aims to classify the LCCAP types prepared by Turkish metropolitan municipalities, assess their adaptation components, and evaluate their alignment with national policies while offering policy recommendations. The findings show that 23 out of 30 municipalities prepared NCCAPs, and 18 of these municipalities developed their NCCAPs as Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans (SECAPs), which include both mitigation and adaptation actions. Using ATLAS.ti software, adaptation actions were categorized into 15 sectors, with water management, disaster risk management, green spaces, and infrastructure being most prominent. The study highlights a growing reliance on nature-based solutions for addressing flood and heatwave risks. While international network memberships influence LCCAP targets, a gap remains in addressing vulnerable groups. Additionally, 11 of the 18 SECAPs were funded by municipal resources, showing strong local commitment. The findings emphasize the need for improved institutional coordination, data for vulnerability assessments, and monitoring systems for adaptation. Strengthening adaptation actions in urban climate policies is vital for resilience in Turkey.