Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment and Adaptation: A Comparative Analysis of Reports Produced for Local Governments in South Africa and South East Queensland, Australia

Richard Meissner

doi:10.25159/2663-6689/4929

Authors

Richard Meissner University of South Africa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2663-6689/4929

Keywords:

climate change, adaptation, paradigm, theory, leadership, policy

Abstract

Climate change is dominating social, political and economic agendas. Because of the salience of the issue, scientists, researchers and consultants have developed a plethora of climate adaptation strategies. In this article I analyse two such strategies: Adapting South African Cities and Towns: A Local Government Guide to Climate Change Adaptation Planning by Ziervogel and Methner; and Climate Change Vulnerability in South East Queensland: A Spatial and Sectoral Assessment by Choy et al. For this analysis I utilised the PULSE³ analytical framework. My analysis indicated that the two adaptation strategies were predominantly positivist in scientific orientation. Other paradigms and theories are also applicable in explaining the issue of climate change and how to adapt to it.

Author Biography

Richard Meissner, University of South Africa

Senior Researcher, Natural Resources and the Environment

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