NERP TE Project 11.1 Building resilience communities for Torres Strait futures (CSIRO) [ 2011-07-01 - 2014-12-31 ]

Research Project

Researchers: Butler, James, Dr (Key party responsible for gathering information and conducting research)

Brief description The low-lying islands of the Torres Strait are vulnerable to climate change and the region faces a range of pressures including a growing population, future climate change, potential pollution as a result of rapid mining and resources development in Papua New Guinea, and increased shipping. Through participatory scenario planning with Torres Strait and PNG communities and stakeholders, informed by integrated ecosystem and climate modelling this project will identify ‘best bet’ strategies to protect livelihoods and achieve sustainable economic development. Tasks include: 1. Identification of key drivers influencing future livelihood pathways in the Torres Strait region. 2. Plausible future scenarios of livelihoods. 3. An agreed typology of livelihoods in the Torres Strait region. 4. An assessment of the adaptive capacity of livelihoods and communities. 5. An assessment of the potential future impacts from drivers on ecosystem services underpinning livelihoods. 6. Identification of the most vulnerable communities and potential case studies for Stage 2 7. Adaptation strategies for these communities. 8. A workshop report summarizing the above for dissemination to all participants.

Notes This project is exploring potential future strategies to improve livelihoods and achieve sustainable economic development in Torres Strait. The project will help to deliver ongoing initiatives promoting climate adaptation, alternative livelihoods and economic development in the region.

Notes James Butler (CSIRO), Erin Bohensky (CSIRO), Yiheyis Maru (CSIRO), Tim Skewes (CSIRO), Vincent Lyne (CSIRO), Wayne Rochester (CSIRO), Ian McLeod (CSIRO), Jack Katzfey (CSIRO), John Rainbird (TSRA), Vic McGrath (TSRA), Miya Isherwood (TSRA), Annabel Jones (AFMA), John McDougall (DSEWPAC International Section), Simon Moore (DFAT)

Data time period: 2011-07-01 to 2014-12-31

141.15,-4.343 141.15,-10.697 148.122,-10.697 148.122,-4.343 141.15,-4.343

144.636,-7.52

text: northlimit=-4.343; southlimit=-10.697; westlimit=148.122; eastLimit=141.15