Stakeholder assemblages of destination climate adaptation

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis paper examines local perceptions of climate adaptation. We develop climate scenarios using the Tourism Climate Index (TCI) to determine the type of tourism that future climate resources will support. Using the case study of Croatia, our findings suggest the possibility of season extension, but also problematic snow cover for winter sports resorts. We design our study using assemblage theory, enabling us to examine local perceptions to climate change adaptation whilst unpacking the complex combination of (local) diverse, relational and processual approaches. Hence, through the lens of assemblage theory, we contend that participants’ perceptions are heterogenous, dependent on their socio-economic roles, agendas, and purposes. Participants’ narratives shape four different assemblages: tourism products, education, cooperation and transformation. Our informants highlight willingness to keep tourism as a main economic activity, in spite of negative links to climate change. Yet, assemblages on ecological education and cooperation address the importance of re-thinking how tourism can contribute to addressing climate change instead of focusing primarily and only on adaptation avenues.