This adelphi briefing, The Nexus of Adaptation and Health Finance: Mapping Multilateral Climate Funds’ Investments and National Needs, examines how global adaptation finance is responding to rising health risks driven by climate change. Authored by Mathilde Wilkens and Dennis Tänzler, the report addresses a critical gap: despite growing recognition that “climate financing is health financing,” investments targeting health adaptation remain limited and poorly aligned with countries’ needs. As health impacts intensify—from heat stress to shifting disease patterns—the briefing provides timely evidence on how multilateral climate funds have engaged with the health sector to date.
Drawing on Climate Funds Update data from 2004–2024 and an analysis of 67 National Adaptation Plans submitted by September 2025, the report maps current funding flows and compares them with nationally identified health priorities. By highlighting disparities, unmet needs, and emerging opportunities, the briefing offers a clear foundation for improving the delivery, targeting, and coordination of adaptation and health finance worldwide.
