Uncovering the Essence of the Climate Change Adaptation Problem—A Case Study of the Tourism Sector at Alpine Shire, Victoria, Australia

Abstract

A problem-orientated and interdisciplinary approach was employed at Alpine Shire, in north-east Victoria, Australia, to explore the concept of contextual vulnerability and adaptability to stressors that include, but are not limited to climatic change. Using a policy sciences approach, the objective was to identify factors that influence existing vulnerabilities that might consequently act as barriers to effective adaptation for the tourism sector. This paper presents initial analyses carried out to clarify adaptation goals through problem definition. Results suggest that many threats, including the effects of climate change, compete for the resources, strategy and direction of local tourism management bodies. An approximation of the common interest, i.e. enhancing capacity in business acumen amongst tourism operators, would facilitate adaptability and sustainability through the enhancement of social capital in this business community.

Acknowledgements

This PhD work would not be possible without the participation, support and interest of the people of the Alpine Shire in north-east Victoria. This work is funded by the Australian Research Council through FF0348550 by Monash University through the Monash Graduate Research School, and by the Sustainable Tourism Cooperative Research Centre, established by the Australian Commonwealth Government. In addition, we wish to acknowledge and thank feedback received from two anonymous reviewers. Any remaining errors are our own.

Notes

Approval number 2005/138, amendment granted for this research on 16 March 2007.