France Unveils the Third National Climate Change Adaptation Plan (PNACC-3)

France has launched its 3rd National Climate Change Adaptation Plan (PNACC) to strengthen resilience against climate impacts. Published on 10 March 2025, the plan is based on the reference warming trajectory for adaptation to climate change (TRACC) and aims to guide national adaptation efforts.

The plan notes that climate change is already affecting daily life in France, with rising temperatures, frequent heatwaves, extreme rainfall and droughts, rising sea levels, and stronger cyclones in overseas territories. Despite global efforts to cut emissions, climate change will continue to shape France’s environment, health, and economy. Experts predict that by 2100, France's average temperature could rise by 4°C, leading to significant consequences such as a 10% drop in GDP, €1 billion in yearly agricultural losses by 2050, and 500,000 homes at risk due to coastal erosion.

France has introduced PNACC-3 to help address these challenges by reshaping the country’s approach to adaptation, ensuring that all infrastructure, policies, and economic decisions factor in future climate risks.

The government will focus on two key actions:

• Ending funding for poorly adapted investments; and
• Aligning all public policies with climate projections by 2030.

Developed through collaboration with various stakeholders including local authorities, state agencies, unions, economic sectors, and associations, the plan was shaped by discussions in four working groups covering territories, biodiversity, economy, and technical standards. A public consultation was held from October to December 2024, allowing citizens and organizations to contribute before final approval.

The final plan is intended to be a foundation for long-term adaptation efforts, set to be revised every five years. The intention is for this process to encourage a national conversation on what needs to be protected, changed, or abandoned, promoting a culture of resilience.

With appreciation to Amineh Farasatmand for her contribution in preparing this blog.