Unpacking Intersectional Approaches to Climate Change Adaptation
Insights from a knowledge co-production workshop
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change identifies intersectionality as a fundamental question for just and equitable climate change adaptation. But how do we apply an intersectional approach in practice? This working paper introduces a set of principles for applying intersectional approaches to climate change adaptation, drawing on discussions at a knowledge co-production workshop in May 2024.
Key Messages
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An intersectional approach helps achieve just and effective adaptation to climate change because it can address interconnected structures of inequity that exacerbate vulnerability.
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Intersectional approaches share features that are synonymous with good adaptation practice, including local leadership, participatory processes, and combining scientific information with Indigenous and Traditional Knowledge for decision making.
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Applying a set of core principles throughout the iterative adaptation cycle (of assessing impacts, risks and vulnerabilities, planning and implementing adaptation actions, and tracking progress) can help move toward intersectional approaches.
Intersectionality recognizes that we are all located within interconnected structures of inequity that produce both privilege and disadvantage. Those who experience intersecting forms of discrimination—such as racism, ableism, and gender inequality—are often disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change. In climate change research and policy deliberations, there is increasing recognition that an intersectional approach is needed for effective adaptation that reaches the people experiencing the highest vulnerability. To date, however, there is limited application of intersectional approaches in climate change adaptation policy and practice.
In May 2024, a small group of advocates, researchers, and practitioners came together to explore this question in a knowledge co-production workshop. What emerged was a set of core principles that are grounded in the participants’ lived and professional experiences. These principles can be applied across contexts to move toward adaptation policy and practice that addresses intersecting inequities.
Participating experts
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