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Apply impact indicators


Impacts indicators measure the longterm effects on specific groups or systems.

The time scale of impact impact indicators is typically on the scale of 5 to 10 years or more. Similar to outcome indicators, impact indicators can be measured in different ways. It could be looked annually or over longer time periods.



AP interactive decision tree - click any node to select it

For example, an outcome of adaptation to climate change in the UK could be reflected in our ability to adapt to hotter summers. One aspect of our progress in adapting to these might be monitored through:

"the number of excess deaths from heat related illnesses during the hottest 3 months of the year"

Limiting increases or observing a sustained decrease in such a number, in the face of increased heat, might reflect an increase in the UK's ability to adjust to our changing climate. However, such an outcome indicator could be influenced by a great variety of factors drawn from systems right cross society.



This section is based on the UNEP PROVIA guidance document


Criteria checklist

1. You want to monitor and evaluate implemented adaptation actions.
2. The purpose of the evaluation is clear.
3. The underlying principles and evaluation criteria have been established.
4. Appropriate indicator types have not been identified.
5. The evaluation is national/regional scale.
6. The evaluation is risk-based.
7. Impact models are available to compute outcomes.