Dissertation/Thesis Abstract

A Manuscript for Addressing Climate Fragility Risks in Transboundary Water Projects: Operationalizing Risk in the Lake Chad Basin and Beyond
by McAnally-Trejo, Erin, M.S., Northern Arizona University, 2020, 141; 27963893
Abstract (Summary)

The purpose of this manuscript is to inform environmental and development organizations of the importance of and strategies for formalizing climate security (climate fragility) risks in the planning and execution of climate adaptation plans for transboundary water projects. Climate change has the potential to alter the dynamic of environmental, political, social, and economic systems. Fragile states with weak governments that do not have the resources to adapt to climate change will be the most at risk for instability, triggering violent conflict at a local, national, or international level. Climate change is considered a compounding threat multiplier with regards to security. As the influence of climate change is felt at an even greater level than before and the community's ability to adapt to these changes is weakened, the likelihood for discord to ensue is imminent. International water systems are and will continue to be areas of increasing tension as many of transboundary waterways have historically experienced armed hostilities. Climate change will impact the availability of water as many resources begin to diminish and water quality becomes an ever-increasing threat to water supplies. Management of transboundary water not only impacts water but also the land it occupies and the political, economic, and social constructs of the region. These changes in the transboundary water systems could lead to increased competition and demand that will likely increase the pressure on governments at a national and international level. The Global Environment Facility (GEF) has a division specifically in place to tackle some of the biggest challenges that transboundary waters face. However, GEF does not include any planning for climate security even though most projects are in areas where violence has occurred or is on-going. Within this manuscript are the methods of how climate fragility can be mainstreamed into the UNDP regional stabilization strategy and the GEF Strategic Action Programs (SAP) for the Lake Chad Basin using tactics that aim to address the root causes of fragility in the region. Overall, if an operationalization strategy is successful in reducing fragility risks, then there will be a tangible, measurable improvement in the environment.

Indexing (document details)
Advisor: Gremillion, Paul
Commitee: McDonnell, Dianne, Nielsen, Erik
School: Northern Arizona University
Department: Civil Engineering, Construction Management, and Environmental Engineering
School Location: United States -- Arizona
Source: MAI 81/12(E), Masters Abstracts International
Subjects: Environmental engineering, Climate Change, African Studies, Water Resources Management
Keywords: Climate change, Climate fragility risks, Transboundary water, Lake Chad Basin
Publication Number: 27963893
ISBN: 9781073953042