Pragmatic Interventions Advancing Equity in Climate Adaptation Through Education, Practice, and Policy

Anthropogenic global climate change is intensifying entrenched patterns of inequity developed through colonial landscapes of extraction. Disproportionate risks and losses are borne by communities who have contributed least to the greenhouse gas emissions driving the rapid pace of climactic destabilization. The current pace and history of injustice both require and demand approaches that build equity through adaptation strategies that support just transition toward equitable climate futures. Advancing these justice-oriented strategies is needed across sectors. This dissertation focuses on examples of pragmatic interventions. These strategies have short implementation timelines and can be readily engaged within existing structures. Identifying pragmatic interventions supports prioritizing simple, actionable successes that create momentum, demonstrate tangible progress, and build the hope and vision that energizes further efforts. The following chapters explore examples of pragmatic praxis interventions across education, practice, and policy. These strategies support building diversity in STEM, learning from biocultural heritage practitioners’ recommendations, and arriving at action through community leadership designing adaptive action through systems approaches. Recommendations for further study are enclosed.