Maladaptation describes adaptation actions taken to reduce vulnerability to climate change that increase, rather than decrease, the vulnerability of a community. Maladaptation may occur when actions increase the vulnerability of people, groups or sectors, increase GHG emissions, increase inequity in the community, decrease incentives to adapt, or place limits on the ability of future generations to adapt.

An action that will reduce or prevent GHG emissions, such as using renewable energies like wind and solar, making buildings, vehicles and equipment more energy efficient, and walking or cycling from time to time instead of using a car. It can also include planting trees to absorb and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.