Optimizing climate crisis adaptation information: Establishment and evaluation of a taxonomic framework

Despite growing recognition of climate risks, the absence of standardized adaptation information systems constrains effective cross-border responses and integrated strategies. Here, we introduce the Korea National Climate Adaptation Information Taxonomy (KADT), developed from 15 years of policy experience, that systematically organizes adaptation data through a bidirectional taxonomic structure. The framework integrates top-down policy categories (science-based information, adaptation solutions, policy evaluation) with bottom-up climate impact drivers (29 CIDs from IPCC AR6 and Korean climate factors), expanding national climate risks from 72 to 118 detailed classifications. Furthermore, to systematically enhance this framework, a four-stage completeness inspection algorithm and impact chain was developed to categorize risk components, validated through compatibility testing with the UK Climate Change Risk Assessment framework. Function point analysis using ISO/IEC 20926:2009 methodology demonstrated operational efficiency improvements of 47.8-81.3 % for single-risk analyses, extending to 82.2-123.2 % when evaluating interconnected risks through impact chain linkages. Benchmarking against UK and US adaptation planning workflows (262-406 function points using conventional methods vs. 114-240 with KADT) confirmed international applicability. The Common Standard Format for Adaptation Information (CSFAI) enables integration of spatial information, damage statistics, and observational data, supporting automated quality assurance for climate risks nationwide. This standardized approach enhances evidence-based adaptation planning and facilitates cross-border collaboration toward global adaptation goals.