From Climate Knowledge to Adaptation Action: A Social-Spatial Framework for Integrating Place-Based Values Through a Value Mapping Approach
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Despite advances in climate modelling, observation systems, and risk assessment, a persistent gap remains between climate knowledge production and its translation into effective adaptation action. Existing approaches often identify physical hazards and vulnerabilities but provide limited mechanisms for integrating socio-cultural values and place-based conditions into adaptation decision-making. This paper proposes a Climate Knowledge Interpretation Framework that conceptualizes adaptation as a structured process connecting climate information, vulnerability contexts, decision systems, and socio-spatial outcomes. The framework draws on established climate datasets, assessment approaches, and socio-spatial analysis to establish a basis for interpreting climate knowledge within local contexts. It argues that adaptation effectiveness depends not only on the availability of climate information but also on the capacity to incorporate intangible values, relational networks, and place-based knowledge into planning processes. The study proposes Value Maps as a conceptual decision-support tool for revealing socio-spatial infrastructures and relational anchors that contribute to adaptive capacity. The proposed framework provides a pathway for developing more inclusive, context-sensitive, and transferable climate adaptation strategies across diverse climatic contexts.
Source: Sustainability
DOI: 10.3390/su18179082
Language: English
Subfield: Global and Planetary Change
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,896
Funder: European Commission
Award: G652930317
OpenAlex ID: W7208710019