Using Learning and Action Alliances to build capacity for local flood risk management

Maskrey, Shaun; Vilcan, Tudorel; O'Donnell, Emily; Lamond, Jessica

Abstract

Learning and Action Alliances (LAAs) are becoming an increasingly popular method for overcoming the challenges associated with participatory forms of governance, where decision making requires collaboration between stakeholders. In flood risk management, LAAs provide a mechanism through which institutional participants can come together, share knowledge, innovate, and devise solutions to ‘wicked’ problems. While the social learning generated at LAAs is now well understood, the mechanism by which this learning is translated into action is less so. In this paper, we argue that in order to maximise the potential for action, LAAs must attend to different elements of capacity building, in order that action can diffuse outwards, from the individual members of the LAA, to their organisations and society beyond. By investigating two UK case study examples, we illustrate how different elements might be utilised in combination, to maximise the potential for longer-term, longer-lasting change. We conclude that the architects of participatory processes, including LAAs, should attend to different elements of capacity building, and consider those best suited to their individual contexts and objectives.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Feb 12, 2020
• Online Publication Date: Mar 13, 2020
• Publication Date: May 1, 2020
• Deposit Date: Mar 7, 2020
• Publicly Available Date: May 15, 2020
• Journal: Environmental Science and Policy
• Print ISSN: 1462-9011
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 107
• Pages: 198-205
• Series ISSN: 1462-9011
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsci.2020.02.012
• Keywords: Learning and Action Alliances, social learning, capacity building, action, flood risk management
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/5627859