Study on the concept and framework of synergy between mitigation and adaptation

Carbon neutrality and the Global Goal on Adaptation jointly drive the integration of mitigation and adaptation; however, a clear conceptual and analytical framework for their synergy remains absent. This study first examines the components of mitigation and adaptation, and analyzes the mechanisms through which they interact. It then explores the fundamental principles underlying the synergy between mitigation and adaptation, and construct a corresponding analytical framework. It emphasizes that mitigation and adaptation are mutually influential, providing a foundation for achieving synergy. Furthermore, synergy should be promoted in the five aspects of objectives, regions, sectors, pathways, and policies―and follows the logic of Driver—Pressure—State—Impact—Response (DPSIR). Based on this, an analytical framework is developed to clarify the interactive relationship between mitigation and adaptation at regional and sectoral levels, while integrating multiple methodologies including scenario analysis, climate models, and policy evaluation. This framework provides a basic process and conceptual model, overcoming the present lack of systematic quantitative assessment methods. In the future, it will be necessary to identify critical regions or sectors and corresponding pathway measures, develop and apply quantitative methodologies, and explore how to build a synergistic policy system that supports both mitigation and adaptation efforts.