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Learning and Envisioning under Climatic Uncertainty: An African Experience

Author

Listed:
  • Petra Tschakert

    (Department of Geography and Earth and Environmental Systems Institute (EESI), Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA)

  • Kathleen Dietrich

    (Department of Geography, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA)

  • Ken Tamminga

    (Department of Landscape Architecture and Graduate Ecology Program, Pennsylvania State University, University Park PA 16802, USA)

  • Esther Prins

    (Department of Learning and Performance Systems, Adult Education Program, Pennsylvania State University, University Park PA 16802, USA)

  • Jen Shaffer

    (Department of Anthropology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA)

  • Emma Liwenga

    (Institute of Resource Assessment (IRA), University of Dar es Salaam, PO Box 35097, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania)

  • Alex Asiedu

    (Department of Geography and Resource Development, University of Ghana, PO Box LG 59, Accra, Ghana)

Abstract

Learning about and embracing change and uncertainty are essential for responding to climate change. Creativity, critical reflection, and cogenerative inquiry can enhance adaptive capacity, or the ability to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to adverse future impacts. However, precisely how learning about change and its driving forces occurs and how experiences are combined with envisioned yet indefinite prospects of the future are poorly understood. We present two linked methodological tools—an assessment of drivers of change and participatory scenario building—used in a climate change adaptation project in Ghana and Tanzania (ALCCAR). We discuss opportunities and challenges of such iterative learning. Our findings suggest that joint exploration, diverse storylines, and deliberation help to expand community-based adaptation repertoires and to strike a balance between hopelessness and a tendency to idealize potential future realities.

Suggested Citation

  • Petra Tschakert & Kathleen Dietrich & Ken Tamminga & Esther Prins & Jen Shaffer & Emma Liwenga & Alex Asiedu, 2014. "Learning and Envisioning under Climatic Uncertainty: An African Experience," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 46(5), pages 1049-1068, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envira:v:46:y:2014:i:5:p:1049-1068
    DOI: 10.1068/a46257
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Oecd, 2009. "Climate Change and Africa," OECD Journal: General Papers, OECD Publishing, vol. 2009(1), pages 5-35.
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