When does place attachment lead to climate change adaptation and when does it not? A quantitative review and thematic analysis

Abstract

The urgent need for climate change adaptation is becoming more pronounced as climate impacts pervade across all scales. To overcome growing constraints on adaptation, research on the social dimensions of adaptation behaviour is of increasing importance. In this respect, there is an expanding body of literature exploring how place attachment influences climate adaptation. However, studies on this relationship have thus far been sporadic and disconnected. We set out to evaluate existing literature with the goal of seeking a comprehensive perspective of current trends and gaps in research practice, and to identify whether place attachment aided or constrained adaptation. A systematic review was undertaken which identified 72 relevant research articles. We quantitatively assessed the research focus of these studies including the type of climate impact and type of adaptation being studied, as well as, study location, methods used and findings. We also conducted a thematic analysis of studies to elicit major emerging links related to attachment and adaptation. Our findings affirm the complex and dynamic nature of this relationship; specifically, we find that effect of place attachment on climate adaptation action are subject to the climate risk perceptions and personal values of the individual, contextual manifestations of climate change impacts, and local sociocultural processes. We identify several gaps in current research, particularly in terms of geography and demography which has implications for equitable climate adaptation. We highlight the need for longitudinal studies, especially from the perspective of successful climate planning and policy and changing environments; and emphasise the importance of incorporating comprehensive insight on place attachment in climate adaptation planning and decision-making processes.