Unlocking urban climate adaptation imaginaries

Abstract

Standardized approaches to urban climate adaptation often overlook the diverse needs, priorities and power dynamics embedded in local contexts, thereby risking the reinforcement of existing vulnerabilities. Here we use Q methodology and artist-produced illustrations to explore how 79 local adaptation actors across 37 countries envision climate adaptation in their cities. We identify four distinct and occasionally conflicting imaginaries: Green City, Sustainable Lifestyles, Climate Preparedness, and Top Down and Technology Driven. These imaginaries reflect the variability in adaptation conceptions across individuals and contexts. While some align with dominant Western paradigms, others advocate for transformative system change. These findings underscore the limitations of one-size-fits-all solutions and emphasize the importance of centering local communities and embracing pluralistic epistemologies. Furthermore, the study demonstrates the potential of artistic collaboration to surface tacit knowledge and reimagine urban climate futures, and calls for inclusive engagement across scales and timelines.