When climate change disrupts a village, city, state, or province, how do leaders respond? What unexpected obstacles do they run into? Researchers from the University of Saskatchewan want to know what factors are conducive to communities adapting to climate change. They also want to better characterize exactly what impedes progress. The team is investigating different models of adaptation ranging from top-down government planning to grassroots organization. Specifically, the team will compare communities in Yukon Territory and Alaska to show how different jurisdictions respond to change. They’re developing a framework to provide communities and planners new tools to chart their future. The team is beginning by identifying and documenting databases that explain adaptation efforts. They are conducting interviews and bringing together diverse groups. Funding comes from the Northwest Boreal Landscape Conservation Cooperative and the Alaska Climate Science Center.
