Enhancing Climate Policy Integration Through Synergistic Land Use Strategies

Abstract

The land use sector holds significant potential for achieving both mitigation and adaptation goals in response to climate change. However, the complexity inherent in managing landscapes for multiple objectives, coupled with the lack of robust tools to assess outcomes, often results in this potential being underutilized in practice. To address this knowledge gap, this paper examines climate policy integration—the combined implementation of mitigation and adaptation measures—in the context of ecological thresholds. Using a hypothetical yet plausible economic-ecological system, the study analyzes the synergistic effects of various isolated and integrated policy configurations through a dynamic optimization framework and simulation tools. The research focuses on how different approaches to policy integration can enhance or hinder the achievement of climate goals, particularly when ecological thresholds are at play. The results reveal that, irrespective of specific circumstances, such as whether or not a regime shift is observed, the most effective policy configuration is one that adheres to the principles of synergy. Specifically, the study finds that a cross-sectoral approach, which involves coordinated efforts between agriculture and forestry, yields the most favorable outcomes. This suggests that harmonization among the different elements within the land use sector is crucial for maximizing policy effectiveness. The findings indicate that to achieve effective climate policy integration, it is essential to view the land use sector as a cohesive entity—such as a landscape—rather than as isolated components like agriculture and forestry. This perspective facilitates a more holistic approach to land management, leading to better alignment of mitigation and adaptation strategies and ultimately more successful outcomes in addressing climate change. The paper underscores the importance of cross-sectoral coordination and the integration of multiple land use objectives to enhance the efficacy of climate policies. This approach not only optimizes resource use but also strengthens the resilience of landscapes to ecological and climatic changes.