Author: Kristen Valdez.
MSc thesis: Investigating collaborative governance capacities in Amsterdam’s climate adaptation strategy
By Kristen Valdez
[Full title: Investigating collaborative governance capacities in Amsterdam’s climate adaptation strategy: The case of two projects]
Given the urgency of addressing climate change impacts, collaborations between local governments and diverse stakeholders are imperative for successful climate adaptation efforts in urban areas. This master thesis explores the role of collaborative governance capacities in policy and their implementations in practice within the context of the climate adaptation strategy of Amsterdam (Strategie Klimaatadaptatie Amsterdam). Through document evidence and interviews analysed in Atlas ti, the study examines four key collaborative governance capacities: adaptive inclusivity, integration of communication methods, reflectiveness on past projects, and the availability of resources. Findings reveal how the presence or lack of these capacities influence the collaboration outcomes in 2 climate adaptation projects, highlighting the importance of context-specific strategies and flexibility in municipal roles. Despite challenges such as institutional constraints and difficulty engaging vulnerable groups, the municipality demonstrates a commitment to enhancing collaborations in their strategy. The study underscores the necessity of a holistic approach to implementing collaborative governance capacities for effective climate adaptation, offering recommendations for future policy and practice.
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