New PNACC outlines 52 measures to address impacts of +4°C warming by 2100.
On March 10, 2025, the French government released its third National Plan for Adaptation to Climate Change (PNACC-3), establishing a coordinated framework to prepare the country for a projected temperature increase of up to +4°C by 2100. Based on a new national warming trajectory known as the TRACC (Trajectoire de Réchauffement de Référence pour l’Adaptation au Changement Climatique), the plan integrates adaptation into all aspects of public policy and infrastructure planning.
France's new reference scenario anticipates average temperature increases of +2°C by 2030, +2.7°C by 2050, and +4°C by 2100 compared to the pre-industrial era. These projections reflect accelerating climate risks, including more frequent heatwaves, droughts, coastal erosion, and biodiversity loss. Regional variations are also expected, with higher warming in southern regions and overseas territories facing unique vulnerabilities such as intensified cyclones and water stress.
The PNACC-3 builds on lessons from the previous plans launched in 2011 and 2018. It shifts from a knowledge-building phase to widespread implementation across sectors and geographies. Developed through extensive consultation from July to December 2023 and a public feedback period in late 2024, the plan incorporates input from local authorities, industry sectors, associations, and citizens.
The plan is structured around five strategic axes and includes 52 detailed measures spanning over 200 actions:
Protecting the Population – Measures address health risks from extreme heat, insurance system reforms, housing resilience, and targeted support for vulnerable groups, especially in overseas territories.
Ensuring Resilience of Territories and Infrastructure – Adaptation strategies for public services, energy systems, transportation, water resources, and electronic communication networks are prioritized.
Adapting Economic Activities – Sectors such as agriculture, forestry, fisheries, tourism, and manufacturing will receive tools and support to integrate climate adaptation into their operations.
Preserving Natural and Cultural Heritage – Actions include ecosystem restoration, biodiversity protection, and safeguarding cultural landmarks from climate impacts.
Mobilizing Society – Education, research, local governance, and public awareness campaigns aim to foster a national “adaptation reflex.”
The PNACC-3 will be overseen by the Directorate General for Energy and Climate (DGEC) with annual progress reports submitted to the National Council for Ecological Transition. The plan will be revised every five years based on updated scientific projections.
France also aims to influence European adaptation strategies, proposing an EU-wide reference trajectory and enhanced integration of adaptation into sectoral policies. The government is advocating for increased access to EU funding streams such as Horizon Europe, InvestEU, and the LIFE programme.
“This new plan is not the end of the road—it is a starting point to embed climate adaptation into every aspect of our society,” the PNACC document states. “Adaptation is a necessity; let’s turn it into an opportunity to live better together in a changing France.”
The PNACC-3 positions France as a proactive contributor to international climate adaptation efforts, aligning national action with global goals under the Paris Agreement and UN frameworks.