What is maladaptation in the context of climate action?

Maladaptation refers to actions or strategies aimed at addressing climate change that inadvertently lead to increased vulnerability to climate impacts. This can occur when adaptations fail to consider long-term sustainability or the broader environmental and social implications. For example, constructing seawalls might protect individual properties from flooding in the short term but can lead to greater erosion or flooding in surrounding areas, creating vulnerability for communities that are not directly protected by these structures. Thus, while the intention behind such actions may be to mitigate risks, the outcome may ultimately exacerbate the challenges posed by climate change.

The other options describe scenarios that do not capture the essence of maladaptation. Actions that effectively reduce climate vulnerability contribute positively and are the opposite of maladaptation. Strategies that ensure economic growth and stability might not necessarily address climate risks and could even reinforce unsustainable practices. Maintaining the status quo would imply no change, which contrasts with proactive climate action aimed at adaptation.