Biography
Daniel is a Postdoctoral Researcher in UCD on a project funded under the iCRAG Public Perceptions and Understanding research theme. Prior to this, Daniel completed a PhD in Urban Studies and Planning at the University of Sheffield which focused on the social implications of new green approaches to climate change adaptation. The research provided important findings on the barriers and opportunities for community participation in climate adaptation planning. Daniel also has extensive previous experience of working in local sustainability projects and as an environmental policy researcher.
As a result of climate change, coastal communities in Ireland face significant and increasing risks associated with coastal erosion. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding how these risks can be sustainably managed. The focus of this project is on finding new ways to engage communities in climate change adaptation and coastal management in order to facilitate better two-way communication and knowledge exchange between experts and those affected, improve management decisions and broaden awareness of climate risks.
Techncial description
The management of coastal erosion and other coastal climate hazards in Ireland has typically relied upon structural engineering solutions such as coastal defences. In a context of increasing risks, there is a need to consider alternative and potentially more sustainable management options such as restrictions on new development and ‘managed realignment’ policies. However, this raises complex new questions regarding, for example, the potentially uneven impacts of such policies on coastal communities and how these communities can be involved in decision-making. In response, this project will identify and test innovative methods of participatory decision-making to build understanding of potential management options and allow informed participation on the part of those affected by coastal erosion. This will result in the development of a context-specific yet transferable mechanism of relevance to other sectors of climate adaptation planning.
Role
- Postdoctoral Researcher
Institution
- UCD
Research Area
- Earth Science in Society
Expertise
- Responsible Decision Making
