Climate change brings about a new set of major economic risks arising from changing weather patterns, extreme weather events and rising sea levels. Those most at risk are developing countries, who, despite considerable post-disaster donor aid, have been bearing the major brunt of disaster-related losses. One adaptation solution that is rapidly gaining support of countries and international donors is a risk transfer to the global reinsurance and capital markets.

This volume, a special issue of the journal Climate Policy, explores the role that insurance-based mechanisms can play in helping these countries to prepare for climate change. It offers a unique and comprehensive perspective on the potential role of insurance solutions in global adaptation to climate change.