Date of Award

8-2020

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Environmental Sciences

First Advisor

Ellen Douglas

Second Advisor

Paul Kirshen

Third Advisor

Elizabeth L. Sweet

Abstract

As climate change threatens our communities, it reminds us of the importance of preparing for the future. Cities and towns are trying to understand how climate change will place their citizens at risk. To create resiliency measures and adaptation plans, they will need climate related parameter information. The Greater Boston Research Advisory Group (GBRAG) knew it was necessary to listen to the needs of stakeholders in Greater Boston about the climate parameter information they need to prepare resilient communities. To accomplish this goal, GBRAG held community workshops, collected a survey, and reviewed their Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness reports. These three methods allowed GBRAG to gain a comprehensive understanding of the information needed by the 101 Greater Boston communities. GBRAG also evaluated the inclusive and exclusive language surrounding the participant’s responses. This allowed GBRAG to understand if the outreach produced tones that accounted for all community groups. The engagement methods and their findings were analyzed and critically studied to understand how future engagement processes could be improved. The process of engaging with the public is challenging but ensures that the GBRAG report will hold information that is needed by the public to create adaptive and resilient communities.

Download

Share

COinS