Adaptation to Climate Change in the Context of Multiple Stressors in the Canadian Arctic

Eric Lede

doi:10.25907/00382

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Adaptation to Climate Change in the Context of Multiple Stressors in the Canadian Arctic

Thesis

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Adaptation to Climate Change in the Context of Multiple Stressors in the Canadian Arctic

Eric Lede

University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland

Master of Arts, University of the Sunshine Coast

2018

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25907/00382

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Abstract

multiple stressors

adaptive capacity

community-based research

participatory research

Indigenous

Inuit

Inuvialuit

Arctic

Paulatuk

resilience

social-ecological systems

vulnerability

Inuvialuit, a self-identified group of Inuit in Canada's western Arctic, are experiencing impacts from climate change in the context of multiple climatic and non-climatic stressors already affecting their lives and livelihoods. To support adaptation that enables Inuvialuit to maintain their traditional practices while improving their livelihoods, decision makers need to understand the role that multiple stressors have in influencing how Inuvialuit experience and respond to climate change. This thesis employs a vulnerability approach to understand how multiple stressors influence adaptation to climate change through a case study of Paulatuk, Northwest Territories, Canada. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with community members (n=28), participant observation, and analysis of secondary sources. Findings indicate that Inuvialuit in Paulatuk are dealing with a wide range of climate and non-climate related stressors operating at multiple temporal and spatial scales. These include issues related to a mixed economy, environmental conditions, institutional education, changes in wildlife, housing shortages, new technologies, and addictions. This research suggests that non-climatic stressors represent strategic entry points to support adaptation and build resilience to deal with current and expected future climate risks.

Details

Title: Adaptation to Climate Change in the Context of Multiple Stressors in the Canadian Arctic
Authors: Eric Lede
Contributors: Tristan Pearce (Supervisor)
Awarding institution: University of the Sunshine Coast
Degree awarded: Master of Arts
Publisher: University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
DOI: 10.25907/00382
Organisation Unit: Indigenous and Transcultural Research Centre; School of Social Sciences - Legacy; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; Sustainability Research Cluster
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99451178302621
Output Type: Thesis

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