Exploring South Florida Practitioners’ Perspectives: A Fresh Study

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A study led by University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science researchers delved into the perspectives of 76 diverse South Florida climate adaptation professionals. Published in the December issue of the journal Oxford Open Climate Change, the study titled “Practitioner perspectives on climate mobilities in South Florida” explores the expectations and concerns of practitioners from government agencies, community-based organizations, and the private sector. They provide their insights on the region’s ability to adapt in the face of increasing sea level rise and diverse consequences for where people live and move, also known as climate mobility.

The study underscoes the growing significance of climate mobility as a crucial adaptive response in the face of increased climate challenges. It not only considers resident perspectives but delves into the views of professionals, offering insights that could potentially shape future strategies and outcomes.

Lead author Katharine Mach says, “This study is a deep dive aiming to understand the perspectives of leading experts on where we are right now in our climate responses in South Florida. These types of conversations are crucial to our prospects for unleashing innovations and successes in regional climate adaptations and preparedness.”

Key findings reveal a consensus among professionals about the inevitability of various forms of climate mobilities in South Florida. Anticipated movements of people and infrastructure assets away from hazardous areas were highlighted, indicating an urgent need for comprehensive adaptation planning.

The study also illuminated a critical gap between individual preparedness among practitioners and the overall readiness of the region to support and manage the expected climate-driven relocations. This discrepancy raises concerns about collective-action failures and the urgency for a more ambitious, long-term transition plan.

According to the researchers, the study serves as an intervention itself, providing insights that might otherwise remain unexplored, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with climate mobilities. The findings aim to inform and guide policymakers, stakeholders, and practitioners toward more proactive and inclusive approaches to climate adaptation.

More information:
Katharine J Mach et al, Practitioner perspectives on climate mobilities in South Florida, Oxford Open Climate Change (2023). DOI: 10.1093/oxfclm/kgad015

Citation:
New study examines perspectives from South Florida practitioners (2023, December 30)
retrieved 1 January 2024
from https://phys.org/news/2023-12-perspectives-south-florida-practitioners.html

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