Using participatory visual methods for information exchange about climate risk in canal estate communities

Abstract

Kilometres of high-value residential real estate have been created through the development of canal estates in low-lying coastal areas of Southeast Queensland, Australia, since the 1970s. Many of these are predicted to be affected by the combined effects of climate change: sea level rise, storm surge and severe weather events. This research identifies perceptions and understanding of vulnerability to climate change of residents of one canal estate. It compares the effectiveness of four participatory visual methods for information exchange and dialogue about climate change risk: risk maps (flood hazard), participatory planning (digital mapping of vulnerable areas), Photovoice (resident-derived photos) and 3D climate change scenarios. Participants favoured the 3D visualisation for its realistic representation of flood heights in a streetview and ability to focus in on particular sites. This interactive engagement approach will benefit State and local governments, the property market and communities in communicating about climate change in coastal areas in general and in considering responses to the long-term impacts of climate change in canal estates in particular.