Data lab for climate change adaptation: a literature and practice review

Abstract

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The rapid pace of urbanization and the intensifying effects of climate change require innovative adaptation strategies. Data Labs have emerged as promising tools for enhancing decision-making by integrating diverse data sources and engaging multiple stakeholders. However, their effectiveness in climate adaptation remains largely underexplored. This paper conducts a systematic review of the literature on Data Labs, examining their role within digital decision-support frameworks. Additionally, a benchmarking analysis of existing climate adaptation platforms is carried out to identify prevailing trends, challenges, and gaps in current approaches. Our findings highlight the need for improved data integration, inclusive stakeholder participation, and governance structures that enhance urban resilience. Based on these insights, this study proposes a refined Data Lab model, outlining its core functionalities, technological requirements, and participatory mechanisms. The research contributes to ongoing discussions on data-driven climate adaptation strategies and offers recommendations for strengthening urban adaptation policies through collaborative digital innovation.

The authors thank the ORION program of Université de Lorraine for its contribution to research funding. This work benefited from a government grant managed by the Agence Nationale de la Recherche under the Programme d'Investissements d'Avenir, reference ANR-20-SFRI-0009.

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Postprint (author's final draft)