“It’s only possible with resistance.” Understanding the Importance of Public Participation and Power in Climate Change Adaptation on the Halligen, Germany

Abstract: Halligen are small low-lying islands that only exist in the North Sea and get flooded during storm surges. The North Sea’s Sea level is projected to rise 60 to 70cm by 2100, making climate change adaptation a question of survival for the Hallig residents. Previous research has focused on technical aspects of adaptation, leaving a knowledge gap on how power and public participation shape adaptation on the Halligen. This thesis contributes to an increased understanding of how power and participation shape adaptation on the Halligen. Data was collected through 17 qualitative interviews with residents and government representatives. The content analysis shows that a lack of traditional knowledge incorporation in decision-making can result in ineffective climate change adaptation. Furthermore, authorities’ power over the residents limits their resistance. I conclude that an understanding of power relations and how to involve knowledge coproduction is needed to develop robust and effective climate change adaptation.