Climate adaptations for coastal farms: Bridging science and mātauranga Māori with art and design

The Plan Journal (2017)

Coastal Māori farming communities are at risk of future climate change impacts like sea level rise, yet due to the abstract nature of climate change science, lack of science communication and economic pressures these communities can be slow to respond and adapt.

Art and design can bridge these issues by combining scientific principles with local culture and visual language to communicate the benefits of adapting to local communities.

This article utilises art and design to present strategies for new farm practices that encourage coastal Māori farming communities to adapt to climate change impacts.

The strategies are responsive to both the Māori worldview and scientific knowledge, and have the potential to provide a model for other coastal communities.