ORIGINAL ARTICLE Opportunities for adaptation-mitigation synergies in geothermal energy utilization- Initial conceptual frameworks Pacifica F. Achieng Ogola & Brynhildur Davidsdottir & Ingvar Birgir Fridleifsson Received: 12 July 2011 /Accepted: 8 November 2011 / Published online: 28 December 2011 # Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2011 Abstract In this article, the role of geothermal energy in mitigation and potential role in adaptation are discussed, and synergies between them developed. The article creates the Geothermal Adaptation-Mitigation (Geo-AdaM) conceptual frameworks that can be used in combining mitigation and adaptation in geothermal projects, e.g. by introducing adaptation additionality in Clean Development Mechanism or mitigation projects, using geothermal energy in climate vulnerable sectors, combining geothermal development with carbon forestry to improve recharge of geothermal systems in water stress areas, displacing fossil fuels in heating and cooling, and use of geothermal heat in raising tree seedlings in cold regions, and in greenhouses to create carbon sinks and green areas. The conceptual frameworks created in this research can cut across most regions, and types of utilization schemes with mitigation/adaptation co-benefits. The resulting co-benefits come with net Mitig Adapt Strateg Glob Change (2012) 17:507–536 DOI 10.1007/s11027-011-9339-1 P. F. A. Ogola(*) Kenya Electricity Generating Co. Ltd, P.O. Box 47936–00100, Nairobi, Kenya e-mail: pacie03@hotmail.com P. F. A. Ogola United Nations University - Geothermal Training Program, Iceland, Grensasvegur 9, 108, Reykjavik, Iceland e-mail: paoo@unugtp.is P. F. A. Ogola School of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Iceland, Sæmundargötu 2, 101, Reykjavik, Iceland B. Davidsdottir Environment and Natural Resources, Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Economics, University of Iceland, Sæmundargötu 2, 101, Reykjavik, Iceland e-mail: bdavids@hi.is I. B. Fridleifsson United Nations University - Geothermal Training Program, Iceland, Grensasvegur 9, 108, Reykjavik, Iceland e-mail: ibf@os.is