The Potential of an Online Map-based Discussion Forum to Engage

Residents in Local Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation

Insoo Steven Chung, Claus RinnerRyerson University

Order of Presentation

1. Introduction

2. ArgooMap

3. Objectives

4. Methodology

5. Findings

6. Conclusion

1. Introduction Objective to examine the potential for utilizing map-based

discussion support in climate change related discussions

In Context of the Live Green Toronto program Five year climate change engagement strategy goal to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions “community animators,” city website, “Sustainabilty Map”

1. Introduction

“Sustainability Map” Based on the ArgooMap tool and Argumentation

Mapping; Mashup based on Google Maps API

Allows stakeholders to discuss climate change issues, repository of “green” information

Study a unique opportunity to observe large-scale GeoWeb implementation in development

2. ArgooMap

2. ArgooMap

Simplified conceptual diagram of the ArgooMap tool.

(Note: integration with external social networking services has not yet been implemented)

3. Objectives

to examine the potential for utilizing map-based discussion support in climate change related discussions

1.What functionality is needed for the goals of the Live Green Toronto Program?

2.How will the ArgooMap tool be integrated into the overall strategy?

3.What are the program’s perspectives on public participation, and factors for long-term viability of the tool?

4. Methodology

Demonstration of ArgooMap to Animators and Program Staff Questions regarding functionality were answered All interviewees had subsequent hands-on

experience of the tool before the interviews

Interview Study Five people among animator team and program

staff Conducted between July 28th and August 11th, 2009 Question topics in tutorial and demonstration

formed basis for interview

5. Findings

5.1. Functional needs of the Sustainability Map

Importance of spatial component in climate change discussions

Input and Organization of Information

Stakeholder Specific Needs

General Public

City of Toronto

Animators

5.2. Integration of ArgooMap tool into overall strategy

Part of integrated strategy

Common platform for information exchange and analysis

Public participation and networking

Phased integration approach

5.3. Public Participation and Long-term viability

Public Participation

Varying definitions of participation

Privacy issues important but not overwhelming concern

Phasing-out of animators as participation and use of map increases

Indirect influence programming and policy

5.3. Public Participation and Long-term viability

Long-term Viability

Financial and technical barriers

Open-sourcing city data, interesting “seed” content

Continued commitment for updates of tool

Maintaining engagement with stakeholders and expanding utility to non-English speaking minorities

Requires firm commitment for outreach programs Map does not replace existing forms of public

participation

6. Conclusion

The GeoWeb is practical and relevant for climate change discussions

Contextual factors will influence how GeoWeb is used

Highlights infancy of Web 2.0, GeoWeb adoption in government

Long-term commitment needed, remaining hurdles

Platform for civic engagement

Likely add to toolkit for engagement strategies

Promising applicability to other programs

Generic and open-source platforms (eg. ArgooMap) flexible for use across policy domains (eg. public health)

Thank you.

Grant provided by: In Partnership with:

Environment Office

www.geoide.ulaval.ca