This document looks at how social protection can be a tool to manage climate risk, with examples from Brazil, Kenya and Lesotho. It discusses how social protection can help bridge the gap between humanitarian and development aid as well as absorb and adapt to climate shocks. The use of social protection can also support of disaster response and better identify vulnerable peoples. Adding targeting criteria based on exposure to climate or hazard allows programmes to distinguish people who need support on a long-term basis from those needing it on a temporary basis. It is also possible to identify those at risk in advance of a shock and provide transitory support to them when they need it.