CoastAdapt is a coastal climate risk management tool developed by NCCARF that provides practical guidance on how to manage the risks from climate change and sea-level rise, together with the associated physical, social and economic risks.

Extensive consultation with practitioners throughout 2015 found a strong demand for peer-to-peer learning and advice through an on-line forum such as a community of practice, incorporating case studies of good adaptation policies and activities (as well as what didn’t work), and access to a panel of independent experts. Engagement, collaboration and cooperation, for which the forum is one mechanism, are seen as vital for successful adaptation to climate change.

NCCARF has constructed and trialled the CoastAdapt online forum which was launched in April 2016. The user-driven forum includes discussions posted on a wide range of topics relating to climate change and adaptation, news items and short feature articles.

The forum includes regular sessions with a panel of adaptation experts who respond to user questions and initiate related discussion.

There is active moderation of the forum to encourage participation, respond to questions and maintain compliance with the site’s expected behaviours.

This presentation will describe the consultation process that led to establishment of the forum, summarise the promotion that has been undertaken, discuss the uptake and use, and describe and demonstrate the site. We will also describe the lessons – positive and negative – that we have learnt in establishing and running such a forum.