Over the next four years [2009-2012], the Adaptation Research Network for Marine Biodiversity and Resources (or simply, the Marine Adaptation Network) will work closely with the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility to deliver on its vision to build adaptive capacity and adaptive response strategies for the effective management of marine biodiversity and natural marine resources under climate change.
The Marine Adaptation Network comprises a holistic framework of five connecting marine themes (integration; biodiversity and resources; communities; markets; and policy) that cross-cuts climate change risk, marine biodiversity and resources, socio-economics, policy and governance, and includes ecosystems and species from the tropics to Australian Antarctic waters.
The Marine Adaptation Network is hosted within the School of Geography and Environmental Studies at the University of Tasmania and is led by Associate Professor Neil Holbrook (convenor).
Given the recent predictions by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicating that global warming will affect the planet over at least the next couple of centuries, it is clear that new paradigms, policies, and governance systems will be essential for Australia in order to sustain the capacity of its marine ecosystems and for securing future economic and societal development. Unfortunately, the degree of resilience and adaptive capacity of many marine species to climate change risks and potential impacts, for example corals and coral reefs, are still poorly known.
The Adaptation Research Network for Marine Biodiversity and Resources aims to implement a strong interdisciplinary organisational framework to engage researchers, governments and industry in a way that will enhance adaptive capacity and reduce vulnerability of Australia’s marine biodiversity and resources to climate change risks.
NCCARF and the Australian Government Department of Climate Change are leading the development of eight National Adaptation Research Plans (NARPs) corresponding to the eight Networks that have also been established.
The Marine Biodiversity and Resources NARP was released for comment in November 2008, was subsequently revised and is with the Minister for final approval. A call for expressions of interest (EOIs) for funding associated with the priorities is expected shortly.
Community Based Participatory Research Principles
The Adaptation Research Network for Marine Biodiversity & Resources is an initiative of the Australian Government Department of Climate Change being conducted as part of the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility www.nccarf.edu.au
