Equitable Adaptation in Action: New Issue Brief from GCC highlights 11 Examples of Local Planning & Implementation

As cities grapple with worsening hazards and extreme weather as a result of climate change, socioeconomic disparities and inequities are amplifying the need for more equitable approaches to climate adaptation. In a new Issue Brief published today, “Equitable Adaptation in Action: Lessons from Local Planning and Implementation,” the Georgetown Climate Center highlights 11 examples of municipal programs that aim to infuse social equity into climate adaptation planning processes and implementation of resilience programs. 

Cities and counties have made tangible progress by creating more equitable structures for decision making, building lasting relationships with communities, and prioritizing community needs in government programs and investments. 

“Cities are increasingly understanding that involving communities in the process of planning and program design goes hand in hand with making sure the programs actually deliver results for the communities that need them most,” said Annie Bennett, Associate Director of GCC’s Adaptation Program. 

Drawing on Georgetown Climate Center’s ongoing work to assess and document state and local adaptation approaches, this Issue Brief highlights 11 innovative programs in cities like Boston, San Diego, Cleveland, Seattle, Savannah and Tampa. Each of the examples demonstrates how equitable adaptation can be implemented through government structures and programs that foster accountability, build relationships with communities, and center community voices and priorities in adaptation decisionmaking. 

“The examples we highlight in this report can inspire additional cities to innovate,” said Bennett. “Of course, every community is different, but these approaches provide elements that can be adapted by other cities and counties looking to make their adaptation programs and processes more equitable.”

Read the Issue Brief here.

Cover Image: Urban tree planting initiatives in Boston. Image credit: Speak for the Trees Teen Urban Tree Corps.