Considerable gaps still exist in understanding the complex dynamics that effect the stimulation of adaptive capacity at different scales, the role of different governance regimes in building adaptive capacity, and the favourable conditions for mobilising reactive and proactive capacity. This thesis aims to contribute to the conceptualisation and operationalisation of adaptive capacity, as well as proffering new case studies to the empirical body of evidence on adaptation and adaptive capacity (Aconcagua Basin in Chile, Rhône Basin in Switzerland). It attempts to bridge the conceptual gap by contributing a more nuanced conceptualisation and operationalisation of adaptive capacity, through better understanding how the governance context and mechanisms within those frameworks contribute to an enabling environment for adaptive capacity. It also seeks to better understand the challenges in generating adaptive capacity across temporal and spatial scales and in so doing, generate a framing of adaptive capacity that better serves policy and decision makers.