EcoCities is directly instigating and resourcing a series of core research projects that will provide the foundation for the adaptation strategy blueprint.
Climate change adaptation blueprint: our research strategy
The overarching aim of the Manchester node of Eco Cities is to create a climate change adaptation blueprint for Greater Manchester, based on the analysis of climate change scenarios and the proposal of appropriate adaptation responses. A research strategy has been developed, which establishes a framework to achieve this aim, organised around 4 key areas: impacts, responses, engagement and dissemination.
MPlan project: Preparedness of AGMA local authorities for climate change adaptation
The aims of the Masters in PLanning (MPlan) client-based project were: to establish the level of awareness amongst local authorities of climate change and the need to adapt; to review the extent to which local and regional planning policy is supporting/hindering adaptation; and to identify barriers to adaptation and offer recommendations to AGMA.
NI 188: Planning to adapt to climate change
National Indicator 188 (NI 188) forms part of the new Local Government Performance Framework and, where chosen by local authorities, the indicator will be included within their Local Area Agreement. NI 188 is concerned with encouraging local authorities (and relevant stakeholders within their Local Strategic Partnership) to establish appropriate measures to manage climate risk and opportunities within services and structures under their remit. The Eco Cities team, in partnership with Red Rose Forest, provided support to Manchester City Council in reaching level 1 of NI 188.
Stakeholder mapping and policy review
By working with key stakeholders, assessing current policy frameworks, and engaging with the adaptation debate in the region, this project will maximise the positive impact that Eco Cities can have on climate change adaptation policy and practice.
A network of stakeholders with an interest in climate change adaptation is being developed. The network will be ‘live’ and will expand during the project to encompass new stakeholders where appropriate. The map will include: national and regional government agencies with a presence in the Northwest; Greater Manchester sub-regional stakeholders; Non-governmental organisations operating in the region, research organisations, private sector businesses and community groups.
A network of stakeholders with an interest in climate change adaptation is being developed. The network will be ‘live’ and will expand during the project to encompass new stakeholders where appropriate. The map will include: national and regional government agencies with a presence in the Northwest; Greater Manchester sub-regional stakeholders; Non-governmental organisations operating in the region, research organisations, private sector businesses and community groups.
Greater Manchester Local Climate Impacts Profile (GM LCLIP)
Before we can consider the changes that Greater Manchester could experience in its climate, it is important to have a sound understanding of the sub-region’s climate in the past. This research project investigates how severe weather incidents (such as heavy rain and storms) have affected Greater Manchester over the last decade, to help to predict the most significant risks and opportunities that could impact Manchester as a result of climate change.
Further information about the research being undertaken can be found on the University of Manchester website www.manchester.ac.uk/ecocities.