Since the impacts of climate change will vary by region - with coastal and mountain areas and flood plains particularly vulnerable – many of the adaptation measures will need to be carried out nationally or regionally.

The role of the European Union will be to support and complement these efforts through an integrated and coordinated approach, particularly in cross-border issues and policies which are highly integrated at EU level.

EU White Paper on adapting to climate change
In April 2009 the European Commission presented a policy paper known as a White Paper which presents the framework for adaptation measures and policies to reduce the European Union's vulnerability to the impacts of climate change.

The White Paper makes it clear that, in all areas, the EU must incorporate climate change consequences in EU policies, funds and research programmes, and the paper outlines the need to create a new common European centre for the exchange information, which can underpin coordination of climate change adaptation efforts across EU Member States.

Areas especially vulnerable to climate change at European level include Southern Europe and the Mediterranean area, Alpine areas, Arctic and low-lying areas.

In Denmark, the greatest challenge will be more flooding due to heavier downpours and an increase in the sea level.