Assessing multi-sector response to climate change through stakeholder involvement

As part of a regional assessment of possible impacts from climate change, the consequences of climate variability and change on human and natural systems in the Mackinaw River Basin, Illinois were assessed. Stakeholders were consulted to assist in 1) developing sector specific responses to climate change, 2) identifying relationships between, and among, sectors at multiple sites, 3) the assessment of impacts, and 4) identification of mechanisms that produce an adaptive response to climate change. Through both individual interviews and focus group sessions, stakeholders suggested sector specific responses would be more reactive than proactive with a strong sense of adaptive capability. Stakeholders felt existing governmental systems could effectively respond to extreme events, even if extremes became more frequent. Specific adaptations were identified ranging from neighbor helping neighbor to the application of technology to reduce personnel requirements and to the development of new genetic characteristics of crops. Although extreme events that produce severe damage were of concern, the expectation for development of "disaster intelligence" offset concerns about under capitalization of individuals, businesses, and industries to cope with climate change impact. Stakeholders felt that a gradual rate of change in climate would allow adaptation to identified scenarios. Copyright ASCE 2004.