Multi-stakeholder perspectives on climate gentrification in Miami-Dade, Florida

Abstract

Climate gentrification (CG) considers the complex ways that climate change can interact with housing affordability, development, and social inequity to contribute to the displacement of marginalized communities. CG is an emerging topic in academic literature, but there is limited understanding of how diverse stakeholders conceptualize and experience CG on the ground. This paper investigates this phenomenon in Miami-Dade, Florida, from a multi-stakeholder lens in order to provide a more holistic understanding of how CG and possible solutions to CG are considered by local actors. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect information from 23 diverse stakeholders in Miami-Dade, including government officials, developers, community organizers, and academic researchers. Results highlight a lack of consensus and conflicting interpretations of the term CG among stakeholders. Despite differing definitions and understandings, interviewees more closely aligned on suggestions for potential solutions to CG. Solutions identified include improving access to affordable housing while also mitigating future climate change. Results emphasize the need for proactive measures to address CG that prioritize equity, sustainability, and community resilience.