Challenge
Overcoming Political Short-Termism in Climate Adaptation
Applied Ethics Strategies:
Strengthening Ethical LiteracyIntroduction
In a port city facing sea level rise, efforts to implement climate adaptation plans have repeatedly stalled due to conflicting priorities between economic development agencies and local environmental organizations. Port authorities and business leaders argue for dredging and seawall construction to protect shipping infrastructure, while community groups advocate for nature-based solutions that restore wetlands and protect at-risk neighborhoods. Political leaders, pressured by election cycles and the need to deliver quick wins, avoid championing any long-term solutions that might alienate one side or require compromise. This leaves climate adaptation efforts mired in indecision despite mounting risks.
How could applied ethics address this challenge?
To address the short-termism that was stalling progress, an NGO launched a series of workshops that brought together local politicians, business leaders, and neighborhood advocates from across the city. Rather than framing climate action in moral or political terms, the sessions focused on unpacking the different ethical perspectives—duty, consequence, and community values—that motivated each group. Participants shared not only what they believed should be done, but why. These discussions revealed overlooked areas of agreement: a shared belief in leaving a livable city for future generations and a common frustration with policy inertia. In the short term, this helped a newly formed coalition co-develop near-term climate priorities that multiple sectors could support. Over the longer term, the process built a foundation for more durable cooperation by fostering mutual respect and a nuanced understanding of each group’s moral commitments.
Questions to consider
What mechanisms can help or incentivize elected officials to support adaptation strategies that extend beyond election cycles?
Where do stakeholders share interests or agree on principles of economic and environmental policy? How can this be built into actionable policies and decision-making?
What implementation challenges are you aware of where applied ethics strategies could help?
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