This paper describes a research project exploring future urban forests. This study uses a Delphi approach to develop a set of key indicators for healthy, resilient urban forests. Two groups of experts participated in the Delphi survey: International academics and local practitioners. The results of the Delphi indicate that "urban tree diversity" and "physical access to nature" are indicators of high importance. "Tree risk" and "energy conservation" were rated as indicators of relatively low importance. Results revealed some differences between academics and practitioners in terms of their rating of the indicators. The research shows that some indicators rated as high importance are not necessarily the ones measured or promoted by many municipal urban forestry programs. In particular, social indicators of human health and well-being were rated highly by participants, but not routinely measured by urban forestry programs.
The utility of any assessment tool critically depends on its level of acceptance by those on whom the assessment impacts. Performance assessment impacts on three distinct groups: patients/consumers, doctors and employers. While these groups may have conflicting beliefs and expectations of performance assessment, the process must be made acceptable to all. This can happen through an exploration of the beliefs and wishes of the key stakeholders in relation to performance assessment, together with the potential rewards and costs. This paper draws on the psychology literature in describing an effective model for change management. It outlines some strategies for each of the three key elements of any successful strategy for change, i.e. getting started, facilitating the transition and ensuring consolidation. Such a practical approach will foster the acceptance of performance assessment structures among all stakeholders.
While the province of British Columbia (BC), Canada, provides guidelines for flood risk management, it is local governments' responsibility to delineate their own flood vulnerability, assess their risk, and integrate these with planning policies to implement adaptive action. However, barriers such as the lack of locally specific data and public perceptions about adaptation options mean that local governments must address the need for adaptation planning within a context of scientific uncertainty, while building public support for difficult choices on flood-related climate policy and action. This research demonstrates a process to model, visualize and evaluate potential flood impacts and adaptation options for the community of Delta, in Metro Vancouver, across economic, social and environmental perspectives. Visualizations in 2D and 3D, based on hydrological modeling of breach events for existing dike infrastructure, future sea level rise and storm surges, are generated collaboratively, together with future adaptation scenarios assessed against quantitative and qualitative indicators. This 'visioning package' is being used with staff and a citizens' Working Group to assess the performance, policy implications and social acceptability of the adaptation strategies. Recommendations based on the experience
OPEN ACCESSSustainability 2012, 4 2177 of the initiative are provided that can facilitate sustainable future adaptation actions and decision-making in Delta and other jurisdictions.
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