The adaptation of water law to climate change
International Journal of Climate Change Strategies and Management
ISSN: 1756-8692
Article publication date: 31 July 2009
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to focus on the adaptive capacity of the institution of water law in two provinces of Canada, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, through the examination of several water conflict case studies in the last decade. By examining outcomes in cases of water shortage, legal mechanisms promoting adaptation can be identified and suggestions made for improving those which potentially increase vulnerability.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper explores several case studies situated in Western Canada, identified during interviews relating to a broader theme of water governance adaptation as part of the Institutional Adaptation to Climate Change (IACC) Project as well as other case studies carried out in the larger IACC project relating to the institutional adaptation to climate change in Canada and Chile. The outcomes of these case studies are examined in relation to their effect on vulnerability and their inter‐relationship to established principles of water law.
Findings
This examination provides insight into the actual workings of water law in resolving water conflicts and important modifications in the institution of water law which will increase adaptive capacity. These cases illustrate that legal provisions which facilitate timely engagement of civil society to water shortages in an all inclusive participatory process provides optimal conflict resolution.
Originality/value
These case studies provide important insights for the development of law and policy which reduces vulnerability and assists people in adapting to climate change in a resilient, effective manner.
Keywords
Citation
Hurlbert, M. (2009), "The adaptation of water law to climate change", International Journal of Climate Change Strategies and Management, Vol. 1 No. 3, pp. 230-240. https://doi.org/10.1108/17568690910977456
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2009, Emerald Group Publishing Limited