Petersen, L.K, Jensen, A. & Nielsen, S.S. 2009. Klimatilpasning og den sociale faktor. Danmarks Miljøundersøgelser, <ST1:PLACE w:st="on">Aarhus</ST1:PLACE> Universitet. 52 s. - Faglig rapport fra DMU nr. 726.
This report addresses the social aspects of climate change adaptation. How do people perceive and relate to climate change adaptation; what risks are associated with climate change, and how are these risks balanced with other risks and concerns of everyday life and long-range choices?
The report is based on an explorative study about social aspects of climate change adaptation in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">Denmark</st1:country-region></st1:place>. The issue was investigated through literature studies and interviews with respondents with residence in different parts of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">Denmark</st1:country-region></st1:place>.
The study was based on a distinction between climate change mitigation and adaptation and further on an assumption in adaptation policies that some adaptation measures – for economic or practical reasons – will have to be carried out by private citizens and households.
This study showed, however, that the distinction between climate change mitigation and adaptation is of little significance for lay people. Moreover, the prospect of climate change does provoke reflections on social values and the need for saving energy, but when it comes to protecting ones own life and property against future damaging effects of climate change the threat seems distant and other forms of home improvement seem more relevant.
Nevertheless, some adaptation measures are carried out by single households and local communities. When households experience weather related damages – of a kind that are expected to occur more frequently and with greater force as a result of climate changes – they take action to repair damages and prevent similar damages in the future; at least the kind of action that is easily carried out such as moving valuable goods from the basement or felling a tree. Such measures are, however, not necessarily understood in a context of climate change adaptation; they are rather specific reactions to acute problems.
To the extent that a more thorough precautionary adaptation effort is required, also by private citizens, it will have to be performed in interaction and collaboration with other actors, be it the council house caretakers, the farmers’ association or local and state authorities.
Full report in danish in PDF-format (1.5 MB)
