This article was downloaded by [University of Connecticut]On 11 October 2014 At 0542Publisher RoutledgeInforma Ltd Registered in England and Wales Registered Number 1072954 Registeredoffice Mortimer House 37-41 Mortimer Street London W1T 3JH UK

Local Environment The InternationalJournal of Justice and SustainabilityPublication details including instructions for authors andsubscription informationhttpwwwtandfonlinecomloicloe20

ldquoAt the waters edgerdquo communityvoices on climate changeClaudia Baldwin a amp Lisa Chandler aa Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences University of the SunshineCoast Maroochydore DC Qld 4558 AustraliaPublished online 20 Aug 2010

To cite this article Claudia Baldwin amp Lisa Chandler (2010) ldquoAt the waters edgerdquo communityvoices on climate change Local Environment The International Journal of Justice andSustainability 157 637-649 DOI 101080135498392010498810

To link to this article httpdxdoiorg101080135498392010498810

PLEASE SCROLL DOWN FOR ARTICLE

Taylor amp Francis makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all the information (theldquoContentrdquo) contained in the publications on our platform However Taylor amp Francisour agents and our licensors make no representations or warranties whatsoever as tothe accuracy completeness or suitability for any purpose of the Content Any opinionsand views expressed in this publication are the opinions and views of the authorsand are not the views of or endorsed by Taylor amp Francis The accuracy of the Contentshould not be relied upon and should be independently verified with primary sourcesof information Taylor and Francis shall not be liable for any losses actions claimsproceedings demands costs expenses damages and other liabilities whatsoever orhowsoever caused arising directly or indirectly in connection with in relation to or arisingout of the use of the Content

This article may be used for research teaching and private study purposes Anysubstantial or systematic reproduction redistribution reselling loan sub-licensingsystematic supply or distribution in any form to anyone is expressly forbidden Terms ampConditions of access and use can be found at httpwwwtandfonlinecompageterms-and-conditions

ldquoAt the waterrsquos edgerdquo community voices on climate change

Claudia Baldwinlowast and Lisa Chandler

Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences University of the Sunshine Coast MaroochydoreDC Qld 4558 Australia

The photovoice research project ldquoAt the waterrsquos edgerdquo which gives voice tocommunities exploring the threats and impact of climate change and rising sea levelson coastal communities was conducted during an environmental art symposium inthe Noosa Biosphere Reserve Australia in June 2009 Photos by participantsillustrated both local and global threats and reflected psychological tension betweenglobal and local action This research partnership with the local people demonstratedan innovative visualisation technique which can be used to collaboratively buildcapacity and consensus about adaptation to climate change It also contributed to theBiosphere Reserversquos educational and cultural aims in relation to climate change

Keywords photovoice community-based research climate change visual researchBiosphere Reserve

Introduction

The global state of the environment is not a pretty picture Combine this with the uncer-tainty about the impact of climate change and the dilemma is ndash what can we do locallythat will make a difference to broader environmental trends This quandary results in indi-viduals and small communities feeling powerless to act in the face of profound globalchange and threatens to result in inaction Yet taking action to mitigate climate changeraises the problems typical of other global public goods (such as water) those of sover-eignty free riding differing preferences and priorities across societies and cumulativeeffects (Zedillo 2008) Collective action is a prerequisite to address this set of problemsand needs to occur at all levels from global to local International protocols are necessaryldquotop-downrdquo commitments to change however collaborative bottom-up solutions are alsoan essential ingredient to achieving results The effects of sea-level rise on the Tuvalu com-munity whose island nation is predicted to be inundated for example can only be addressedthrough multilevel collective action

Collective action however requires a shared sense of values and direction In recentyears perceptions about climate change have been shifting norms are developing aspeople grapple with the scientific evidence and the difficulty of testing assumptionsCurrently views about climate change are understandably diverse Individual actionabout climate change depends on onersquos social construction resulting in importantdebates about priorities for adaptation versus mitigation and local versus global actionIndividual understanding of climate change is defined in social settings (Pettenger 2007)

ISSN 1354-9839 printISSN 1469-6711 online

2010 Taylor amp FrancisDOI 101080135498392010498810

httpwwwinformaworldcom

lowastCorresponding author Email cbaldwinusceduau

Local EnvironmentVol 15 No 7 August 2010 637ndash649

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

People make sense of the world based on a personal template (ie cognitive construct orworldview) that is continually updated based on observations and experience (Dinsdaleand Fenton 2006) Such constructs can act as social amplifiers or filters for informationAdditionally individuals may more readily accept information that is congruent withtheir values and worldviews So when faced with the same information not all people inter-pret issues in the same manner This means that people who hold different sets of valuesmay choose different actions (Abel et al 1998 Harding 1998 Swaab et al 2002) Indealing with complex concerns associated with climate change understanding underlyingvalues improves the likelihood of reaching a mutually satisfactory outcome in a decision-making process (Cornelius 1998 Susskind et al 1999)

Resilience and adaptive capacity literature suggests that coupled socio-ecological resi-lience can be nurtured by governance arrangements that enable an interplay of the stake-holders involved in interventions aimed at promoting sustainability (Bressers and Kuks2003 Schluter and Pahl-Wostl 2007) Breaking deeply entrenched unsustainable patternsrequires a new level of thinking inspired by powerful action-oriented processes that takeplace in regular societal contexts and simultaneously lead to individual and collaborativeaction and transformation (Morgan 2009 p 446) Resilience reflects the degree to whicha complex adaptive system is capable of self-organising and building capacity for learningand adaptation and is fostered through multilevel social networks for developing socialcapital and for supporting legal political and financial frameworks (Adger et al 2005)Thus systems and processes are needed that foster dialogue to build a shared understandingof diverse perspectives and common ground This ldquoshared mental modelrdquo can facilitatecollaboration and transformation (Swaab et al 2002) To what extent though are stake-holdersrsquo voices communicated heard and incorporated in policy decision-making Theseperspectives have informed our study

This research explores the capacity of the engaging photovoice technique to elicitvalues and personal constructs about climate change and share them in a way that motivatesaction The persuasive properties of speech and discourse ndash and we argue shared visual-isation ndash to interpret meanings around climate change are essential to develop the newldquolevels of consciousnessrdquo that are required to address the problem of climate change AsPettenger (2007 p 1) drawing on Einstein suggests ldquoNo problem can be solved fromthe same level of consciousness that created itrdquo The research is set within the NoosaBiosphere Reserve (NBR) in Australia which has a particular set of governance arrange-ments that we suggest is conducive to social learning and building of adaptive capacityBy giving voice to local stakeholders and understanding diverse perspectives this researchcontributes to our better understanding of adaptive mechanisms contributing to theeducational and capacity-building aims of the NBR and in a small way playing a partin the global conversation on climate change

The context

The coastal community of Noosa Australia was awarded the Biosphere Reserve status inSeptember 2007 not just because of its ability to protect its high biodiversity values butbecause of its capability to manage land use sustainably at different levels and zones(SCRC 2008) In awarding this status UNESCO noted the ldquosophisticated level of humansettlement and a high level of inter-relationship with the natural environment and thestrong sense of community involvement and community co-ordination over a broadrange of human settlement and natural environmental issuesrdquo (SCRC 2008 p 12) Inaddition Biosphere Reserves demonstrate innovative approaches to conservation and

638 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

sustainable economic development beyond defined protected areas through partnershipsthat include local people (UNESCO 2002)

In 2008 structural reform of local governments in the state of Queensland resulted inthe former Noosa Shire being amalgamated with two adjacent councils to become the Sun-shine Coast Regional Council in spite of much local opposition The previous Noosa ShireCouncil had a long-established reputation and demonstrated values about conservingnatural assets preserving visual amenity of both the built and natural environment (land-scapes and seascapes) and a growing sense of community and sense of place through main-taining a village atmosphere (Baldwin and Bycroft 2009) The Council had been a leader inpromoting community involvement and partnerships and for several years had fosteredcommunity engagement and capacity-building through sector-based community advisoryboards To facilitate NBR functions the new Sunshine Coast Regional Council is thesole member (shareholder) of a company limited by guarantee The previous NoosaShire Council-established Community Boards have evolved to become six Noosa Bio-sphere Community Sector Boards which encompass cultural economic environmentsocial education research and development sectors and Tourism Noosa

The Biosphere Reserve governance model and consultative processes aim to ensureleadership accountability and transparency in resourcing its activity while enabling com-munity to develop and direct activities In accordance with sound governance theory(Cheong 2008 Webbe and Weller 2008) the success of the Biosphere Reserve relies onits ability to form strong partnerships with government agencies international organis-ations the private business sector and the community Project delivery will rely on arange of funding mechanisms as well as volunteerism Thus to function effectively requiresactive involvement and the commitment of all stakeholders and local people have asignificant role to play

This commitment to community involvement and environmental awareness that charac-terised the previous Council and now the new Council has been evidenced in manyspheres including the creative sector Since 2001 a biennial site-specific environmentalart event ldquoFloating Landrdquo sponsored by Noosa Regional Gallery has been held in theNoosa area The aim of this event has been to stimulate dialogue about environmentalissues In June 2009 the art event was held at Boreen Point on Lake Cootharaba about20 min by car northwest of the tourist town of Noosa Heads The Sunshine Coast RegionalCouncil (2010) identified the Floating Land project which involves partnership with thecommunity industry and researcheducation groups as an example of how some of theNBR aims might be manifest by providing an opportunity to demonstrate and appreciateNoosa Biosphere values It was also seen as a forum for reflecting the aims of the newregional Council in addressing issues of sustainability ldquoenvironmental excellencerdquo andldquothe determination of the community to ensure the protection of this heritagerdquo (Ballinger2006 p 3) Our research project was scheduled as an event within the 2009 FloatingLand festival which explored the theme of ldquorising seas and changing climaterdquo with a par-ticular focus on the south Pacific enhanced by participation of Tuvaluans resident inAustralia

Methodology

This research is concerned with hearing understanding and communicating local voices Itelicits and disseminates the values and concerns of three different groups about being ldquoatthe waterrsquos edgerdquo in times of uncertainty due to climate change Three groups which par-ticipated in the Floating Land event were targeted in this research to provide contrasting

Local Environment 639

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

perceptions of climate change They comprised (1) visiting international and domesticartists who created their art and held workshops (2) Boreen Point community memberswho have experienced severe flooding are aware of the negative as well as positiveimpacts of living at the waterrsquos edge and as hosts of the event had to deal with implicationsof the visiting population on their small lake-side community and (3) visitors to the 10-dayevent who formed a temporary learning and sharing community during the festival whoprovided contrasting perspectives from a ldquobroader societyrdquo not linked to a specific placeand who had the capacity to bring in and disseminate ldquooutwardsrdquo local and regional views

A visual research technique photovoice was used to elicit and share their values aboutbeing at the waterrsquos edge in a time of climate change and rising sea levels Photovoice hasprimarily been applied in community development with four main goals (a) to engagepeople in active listening and dialogue (b) to create a safe environment for introspection andcritical reflection (c) to move people towards action and (d) to inform the broader society tohelp facilitate community change (Carlson et al 2006) It enables disadvantaged groups tohave a continuing conversation based on photos they take of their surroundings which arethen presented to decision-makers or media to convey their perspectives on significant commu-nity issues The photovoice methodology includes critical reflection through participantsselecting photographs for discussion contextualising and storytelling codifying issuesthemes and theories and writing down stories (Wang and Burris 1997 Wang et al 1998Wang 2001) It functions to empower the participants as it is ldquorespondent generated datardquoand it is an innovative and engaging method of primary data collection It was relevant toour aim of understanding and communicating diverse social constructions of climate change

The photovoice method used in this research not only captures the groupsrsquo values andconcerns about climate change and sustainability visually and orally but provides an inno-vative and reflective method for demonstrating these values to the broader community Ourresearch took an already unique and engaging method for ldquovoicingrdquo community views andbroadened its application to eliciting and sharing values about climate change and sustain-ability in the context of place using digital technologies This allowed it to be adapted forextension purposes on the internet to contribute to a global conversation

The process used was as follows

(1) Participants in each of the three groups were briefed about the project early in theevent and asked to commit to all stages

(2) Participants took photos at their convenience during the festival which represent(a) what they value about being at the waterrsquos edge(b) what they perceive to be threats about being at the waterrsquos edge(c) what they value about the Floating Land event as a vehicle for sharing and

communicating ideas about climate change rising seas and sustainable living(3) From all their images each participant selected nine photos (three representing

each theme) and discussed their photos in a focus group to share their perspectivesEach of the three focus groups selected photos and collaboratively wrote captionswhich group members agreed portrayed their views and represented the groupmeaning (perspectives) (Figure 1)

(4) The photos were printed and displayed on boards in the ldquoBig Toprdquo on the last day ofthe festival (Figure 2) Each group then presented their photos and captions electro-nically (in a PowerPoint presentation) to a wider public audience

(5) A brief survey was used to determine the impact of the project and presentations onboth the participants and the broader audience A Likert scale was used to respondto the following questions To what extent has this project

640 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

(a) Stimulated your curiosity or interest to find out more about climate change(b) Raised your awareness about climate change issues(c) Improved your understanding of othersrsquo perspectives about climate change(d) Reinforced your existing views about climate change(e) Shifted your views about climate change(f) Encouraged you to take action about climate change

Participants were also asked open-ended questions For example ldquoidentify upto 3 photos that affected you or resonated most with you Give the numberfrom the display or describerdquo

(6) The images were displayed on the web after the event with an opportunity forpublic input and response (Floating Land 2009)

On a practical level sound preparation and organisation were essential to implementthe technique at a time-constrained event The project was advertised early as part of theFloating Land festival and participants needed to have digital cameras and be availablefor both a briefing at the commencement of the project and for a focus group towardsthe end Computers portable printers and a digital projector were available in a marqueetent as were display boards for displaying hard copies of the photos Facilitators ofthe focus groups were experienced and managed each group process in less than 90 minA technician was available to place the photos in the order requested for the grouppresentations

Outcomesanalysis

We were specifically interested in observing whether there were commonalities or differ-ences in the constructs expressed by the three different groups concerning values andthreats associated with being at the waterrsquos edge in times of climate change In particularwe were interested in whether local perspectives differed from those of the other twogroups ndash artists and visitors ndash who did not reside at this specific place We alsosought to understand the influence of the photovoice project on both participantsrsquo and

Figure 1 Focus group with Boreen Point residents

Local Environment 641

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

non-participantsrsquo awareness understanding of othersrsquo perspectives and desire to takeaction on climate change While the literature demonstrates the empowering qualitiesof photovoice for participants (Wang et al 1998) the potential for a photovoice presen-tation to influence observers or the audience is an identified gap in the research (Baldwin2008)

Sixteen participants in total comprised the three separate focus groups with four artistseight local residents and four visitors A notable observation by the researchers was howquickly the participants collaborated on selecting photos and agreeing on photo captionsfor the public presentation on the final day This applied to all groups the artists and visitorswho did not know each other as well as the Boreen Point group who later commented onthe fact that previous differences did not prevent them from reaching consensus on the ideasthey wished to communicate There appeared to be a shared sense of the importance ofworking together for a ldquogreater goodrdquo the community and the future There was alsoeasy agreement about who would present to the public on the final day of the festival

Photos chosen by all groups illustrated commonalities with shared concerns about theenvironment and threat of climate change The value of place and being at the waterrsquos edgeand specifically the beauty and tranquillity of Boreen Point and the lake was anotherrecurring theme (Figures 3 and 4)

While common ground was revealed among all participants it was also clearly evidentthat there were differences between photos taken by locals and the other two groups Artiststended to take aesthetic photos and frequently chose the environmental art works as theirsubject matter In addition their captions often involved the use of written metaphorssuch as ldquoreeds as marker sticks of changerdquo (Figure 5) In contrast local residents paidless attention to providing aestheticised views and instead took photos of local issuesand local actions such as plastic litter (Figure 6) and residents at a working bee pullingout weeds Residentsrsquo perspectives were more grounded and frequently identified practicalsolutions thus revealing their local knowledge and experience in relation to this particularlocation These differing approaches were clearly communicated to those attending thepublic forum with all but three of the 23 respondents to the survey (over 85) noticing

Figure 2 Display on final day

642 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Figure 3 Our livelihood threatened ndash what are we going to eat

Figure 4 Will it be here when they grow up

Figure 5 Rising levels Reeds as marker sticks of change (artist)

Local Environment 643

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

differences in the three groupsrsquo perspectives These perceptions were supported with com-ments such as the following

The visitors had a broader perspective amp ldquoworld viewrdquo whereas the residents focused more onlocal effects of people and climate change

Artists were more image based visitors showed a diversity of views While residentsrsquo pic-tures conveyed a mood of appreciating what we have but also what might be good and bad

The artists were looking more at aesthetic representations of climate issues in contrast to theresidentsrsquo metaphors with everyday life I found the residentsrsquo representations most insightful

The expression of diverse perspectives facilitated by the photovoice process occurred onseveral levels The dialogue that emerged during focus groups as participants discussed theissues and put together their presentations was important for consensus-building withingroups and empowerment of the participants However we were also interested to discoverways in which communication extended beyond the individual groups by asking attendees atthe presentation to complete the questionnaire at the end of the talk Of the 23 survey respon-dents 9 did not participate in photovoice groups and could be considered a more ldquoobjectiverdquoaudience for the remainder it was the first time they had seen the other groupsrsquo photos

Additionally we surveyed which photos resonated most with or had the strongestimpact on observers at the final presentation The two most frequently selected photoswere not particularly aesthetic or subtle however they were strong direct and memorableimages Furthermore they communicate clear messages concerning action and a need tochange (Figures 7 and 8)

In commenting on the impact of the presentations only 56 of all survey respondentsconfirmed that the photovoice project raised their awareness of climate change However71 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project reinforced their views withseveral respondents commenting that they already had a high level of awareness ofclimate change Nevertheless there was evidence that the presentations had providedgreater clarity and an awareness of othersrsquo perspectives As one respondent remarked

Irsquom already a convinced activist ndash but this project has pinned down the issues on a local level

Figure 6 Who cares Chain reaction people fish birds (resident)

644 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Importantly 91 indicated that the presentations increased their understanding of othersrsquoviews and this was common to all participant groups In addition a high percentage773 felt that the Floating Land event affected their interest and awareness of climatechange revealing the value of diverse forms of communication in addressing climatechange issues

Figure 7 The end of the ldquogood yearsrdquo (visitor)

Figure 8 Are we still asleep Why do not we do something (resident)

Local Environment 645

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

The Floating Land Event is a wonderful opportunity to meet discuss and seek alternatives ndashwith fellow residents as well as visitors of all shades and cultures

been aware of these issues but meeting Tuvalu people and seeing photos of Tuvalu hashad a significant impact

The impact of the images and related captions in motivating participants was also evident as69 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project encouraged them to take actionwith comments including

I feel that personally and collectively there needs to be less talk and more action

Helped us decide to be more active in the cause

Of interest is that only three of the nine (33) non-photovoice group respondents indicatedthat the project influenced them to a large degree in their responses to questions aboutstimulating interest raising awareness shifting their views and encouraging them totake action in climate change While the sample is not large enough to draw substantiveconclusions it does suggest that participating directly in the photovoice experiencewould have greater impact than simply observing the output consistent with communitydevelopment literature (Ife and Tesoriero 2006)

In these ways the photovoice project gave voice to local people whose knowledge wasgrounded in the specific and juxtaposed these views with those of two groups who broughtin ldquooutsiderrdquo perspectives This facilitated an increased understanding of commonalitiesand differences generated consensus concerning climate change and was effective inencouraging many of the photovoice participants to take action (Figure 9)

Conclusionssignificance of the research

The ldquoat the waterrsquos edgerdquo photovoice project was found to be effective in expressing threedifferent groupsrsquo values about climate change It implemented the following

illustrated common ground among the three groups in terms of sense of place caringfor place and concern about climate change

Figure 9 The time for contemplation is over (visitor)

646 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

empowered individuals fostered expression and promoted understanding andawareness of differing perspectives among different groups and

motivated participants to take action about climate change (although whether they door not is not tested by this methodology)

These findings are inter-related in terms of prompting social action Reconciling differ-ences identifying common ground and building consensus are important precursors to col-laboration and collective action The critical reflection components of the photovoicemethodology that occur while taking photos during group interaction and during the pres-entation of photos contribute to a re-evaluation of onersquos experience and social learningVisual images engage the emotions (Mason 2004) and are a useful way to communicatedeeply held views (Wang et al 1998) The capacity of images to communicate in termsof metaphor and to convey multilayered meanings draw out feelings and emotions in exter-nal parties as well as in participants Furthermore Carlson et al (2006) claim that thephotovoice method contributes to social change because it challenges assumptionsembedded in cultural norms and elicits emotional engagement critical reflection cognitiveawakening and the intention to act Thus it can contribute to the ldquonew lsquolevels of con-sciousnessrsquo required to address the substantial lsquoproblemrsquo of climate changerdquo (Pettenger2007 p 3) We suggest that photovoice as a visualisation technique demonstrated that itcould contribute to building both ldquobondingrdquo and ldquobridgingrdquo social capital (Putnam2000) local participants indicated that they cooperated much more than usual (bonding)all participants indicated increased awareness of othersrsquo perspectives (bridging)

The outcomes also reflected the interplay between local and global issues and actionAll groups identified critical issues at a global scale for example the photo of sails onthe lake titled ldquoThe last fleet leaves Tuvalu after the Arctic ice sheet meltsrdquo They alsoidentified the need for collective action with a photo of a rainbow over the lake titledldquoAlways hope when people share ideasrdquo and another photo of footprints in the sand entitledldquoEveryone owns the waterrsquos edgerdquo It appeared though that it is easier to identify specificactions when they are associated with a ldquoplacerdquo as residents addressed the issues from aspecific and local perspective This was illustrated by an array of residentsrsquo photos whichincluded ldquocombating invasive weedsrdquo ldquopeople own the streets not carsrdquo and a dysfunc-tional stormwater drain By drawing out values as well as threats the project shiftedlocal participants from a sense of powerlessness in relation to climate change to a senseof hope and recognition that their collaborative actions were meaningful In additionsharing their personal constructs about climate change elicited a strong need to act nowamong participants Thus this research has broader implications as it advances understand-ings of perceptions and social constructions of climate change ndash an emerging and criticalarea of international research

As a case study of a specific regional event within the NBR this research contributes tothe Councilrsquos and NBRrsquos measurable identifiers of progress towards its and UNESCOrsquosMan and the Biosphere objectives ndash to ldquodemonstrate innovative approaches to conservationand sustainable developmentrdquo and to produce and disseminate research findings interna-tionally which ldquopromote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans andthe biosphererdquo (UNESCO 2002 p 198) Such events represent social learning environ-ments ldquoto experiment with and showcase various approachesrdquo to sustainability ldquothat are cul-turally relevant to local communitiesrdquo (UNESCO 2002) Moreover set within the context ofthe NBR governance arrangements with its partnering sector boards the engaging photo-voice project and Floating Land event contributed to building adaptive capacity andreinforced the essential role of local people This research makes explicit Biosphere

Local Environment 647

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

goals concerning environmental awareness and stewardship by eliciting and communicat-ing differing communitiesrsquo views about ldquobeingrdquo and living at the waterrsquos edge By placingthe outcomes on the internet we showcase the approach and offer the technique as one thatcould be applied elsewhere among even more disparate groups to address issues such assustainability climate change mitigation and adaptation To further fulfil the potential ofsuch methods to break unsustainable patterns and inspire transformation this projectcould be used as a basis for a council-wide or even global project whereby local groupsgenerate their own narratives about climate change issues opportunities and actionThese could then be presented to relevant decision-makers in their communities andcould contribute to a global website promoting climate action

Photovoice has often been used as part of longer term community development projectsand can be implemented in many different ways In this case the time constraints appearedto focus the participants on reaching a consensus on photo-selection captions and the pres-entation format quickly while still capturing all voices While it could be argued that theproject involved groups already interested in climate change issues the value that partici-pants placed on sharing and appreciating different viewpoints suggests that the process hasmerit in fostering understanding and collaborative action Ultimately the project illustrateda specific approach which was both enjoyable and engaging for future self-organising ofcommunity groups around complex issues It promoted dialogue and understanding ofothersrsquo perspectives and effectively fostered social capital as a basis for building commu-nity resilience during times of uncertainty

AcknowledgementsWe appreciate the time and effort of all the participants of the ldquoAt the Waterrsquos Edgerdquo photovoiceproject the support of organisers of the Floating Land event and University of the Sunshine Coastfor funding

ReferencesAbel N et al 1998 Mental models and communication in agriculture Canberra ACT Rural

Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No 98140Adger W et al 2005 Social-ecological resilience to coastal disasters Science 309 (5737)

1036ndash1039Baldwin C 2008 Integrating values and interest in water planning using a consensus-building

approach Thesis (PhD) The University of QueenslandBaldwin C and Bycroft P 2009 Governance options for maintaining values in times of change In

Proceedings people and the sea V ldquoliving with uncertainty and adapting to changerdquoAmsterdam The Netherlands Centre for Maritime Research (MARE) 1ndash31

Ballinger C 2006 Preface In K Wilson ed Creative territories site specific art as communionTewantin QLD Noosa Council 3ndash4

Bressers H and Kuks S 2003 What does ldquogovernancerdquo means From conception to elaboration InH Bressers and W Rosenbaum eds Achieving sustainable development the challenge ofgovernance across social scales Westport CT Praeger 65ndash88

Carlson E Engebretson J and Chamberlain R 2006 Photovoice as a social process of criticalconsciousness Qualitative Health Research 16 (6) 836ndash852

Cheong S 2008 Controlling the coast Ocean and Coastal Management 51 (5) 391ndash396Cornelius H 1998 The gentle revolution summary Chatswood NSW Simon and SchusterDinsdale E and Fenton M 2006 Assessing coral reef condition eliciting community meanings

Society and Natural Resources 19 (3) 239ndash258Floating Land 2009 Photovoice research project [online] Available from httpwwwfloatingland

comau [Accessed 12 December 2009]Harding R ed 1998 Environmental decision-making Annandale NSW The Federation Press

648 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

People make sense of the world based on a personal template (ie cognitive construct orworldview) that is continually updated based on observations and experience (Dinsdaleand Fenton 2006) Such constructs can act as social amplifiers or filters for informationAdditionally individuals may more readily accept information that is congruent withtheir values and worldviews So when faced with the same information not all people inter-pret issues in the same manner This means that people who hold different sets of valuesmay choose different actions (Abel et al 1998 Harding 1998 Swaab et al 2002) Indealing with complex concerns associated with climate change understanding underlyingvalues improves the likelihood of reaching a mutually satisfactory outcome in a decision-making process (Cornelius 1998 Susskind et al 1999)

Resilience and adaptive capacity literature suggests that coupled socio-ecological resi-lience can be nurtured by governance arrangements that enable an interplay of the stake-holders involved in interventions aimed at promoting sustainability (Bressers and Kuks2003 Schluter and Pahl-Wostl 2007) Breaking deeply entrenched unsustainable patternsrequires a new level of thinking inspired by powerful action-oriented processes that takeplace in regular societal contexts and simultaneously lead to individual and collaborativeaction and transformation (Morgan 2009 p 446) Resilience reflects the degree to whicha complex adaptive system is capable of self-organising and building capacity for learningand adaptation and is fostered through multilevel social networks for developing socialcapital and for supporting legal political and financial frameworks (Adger et al 2005)Thus systems and processes are needed that foster dialogue to build a shared understandingof diverse perspectives and common ground This ldquoshared mental modelrdquo can facilitatecollaboration and transformation (Swaab et al 2002) To what extent though are stake-holdersrsquo voices communicated heard and incorporated in policy decision-making Theseperspectives have informed our study

This research explores the capacity of the engaging photovoice technique to elicitvalues and personal constructs about climate change and share them in a way that motivatesaction The persuasive properties of speech and discourse ndash and we argue shared visual-isation ndash to interpret meanings around climate change are essential to develop the newldquolevels of consciousnessrdquo that are required to address the problem of climate change AsPettenger (2007 p 1) drawing on Einstein suggests ldquoNo problem can be solved fromthe same level of consciousness that created itrdquo The research is set within the NoosaBiosphere Reserve (NBR) in Australia which has a particular set of governance arrange-ments that we suggest is conducive to social learning and building of adaptive capacityBy giving voice to local stakeholders and understanding diverse perspectives this researchcontributes to our better understanding of adaptive mechanisms contributing to theeducational and capacity-building aims of the NBR and in a small way playing a partin the global conversation on climate change

The context

The coastal community of Noosa Australia was awarded the Biosphere Reserve status inSeptember 2007 not just because of its ability to protect its high biodiversity values butbecause of its capability to manage land use sustainably at different levels and zones(SCRC 2008) In awarding this status UNESCO noted the ldquosophisticated level of humansettlement and a high level of inter-relationship with the natural environment and thestrong sense of community involvement and community co-ordination over a broadrange of human settlement and natural environmental issuesrdquo (SCRC 2008 p 12) Inaddition Biosphere Reserves demonstrate innovative approaches to conservation and

638 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

sustainable economic development beyond defined protected areas through partnershipsthat include local people (UNESCO 2002)

In 2008 structural reform of local governments in the state of Queensland resulted inthe former Noosa Shire being amalgamated with two adjacent councils to become the Sun-shine Coast Regional Council in spite of much local opposition The previous Noosa ShireCouncil had a long-established reputation and demonstrated values about conservingnatural assets preserving visual amenity of both the built and natural environment (land-scapes and seascapes) and a growing sense of community and sense of place through main-taining a village atmosphere (Baldwin and Bycroft 2009) The Council had been a leader inpromoting community involvement and partnerships and for several years had fosteredcommunity engagement and capacity-building through sector-based community advisoryboards To facilitate NBR functions the new Sunshine Coast Regional Council is thesole member (shareholder) of a company limited by guarantee The previous NoosaShire Council-established Community Boards have evolved to become six Noosa Bio-sphere Community Sector Boards which encompass cultural economic environmentsocial education research and development sectors and Tourism Noosa

The Biosphere Reserve governance model and consultative processes aim to ensureleadership accountability and transparency in resourcing its activity while enabling com-munity to develop and direct activities In accordance with sound governance theory(Cheong 2008 Webbe and Weller 2008) the success of the Biosphere Reserve relies onits ability to form strong partnerships with government agencies international organis-ations the private business sector and the community Project delivery will rely on arange of funding mechanisms as well as volunteerism Thus to function effectively requiresactive involvement and the commitment of all stakeholders and local people have asignificant role to play

This commitment to community involvement and environmental awareness that charac-terised the previous Council and now the new Council has been evidenced in manyspheres including the creative sector Since 2001 a biennial site-specific environmentalart event ldquoFloating Landrdquo sponsored by Noosa Regional Gallery has been held in theNoosa area The aim of this event has been to stimulate dialogue about environmentalissues In June 2009 the art event was held at Boreen Point on Lake Cootharaba about20 min by car northwest of the tourist town of Noosa Heads The Sunshine Coast RegionalCouncil (2010) identified the Floating Land project which involves partnership with thecommunity industry and researcheducation groups as an example of how some of theNBR aims might be manifest by providing an opportunity to demonstrate and appreciateNoosa Biosphere values It was also seen as a forum for reflecting the aims of the newregional Council in addressing issues of sustainability ldquoenvironmental excellencerdquo andldquothe determination of the community to ensure the protection of this heritagerdquo (Ballinger2006 p 3) Our research project was scheduled as an event within the 2009 FloatingLand festival which explored the theme of ldquorising seas and changing climaterdquo with a par-ticular focus on the south Pacific enhanced by participation of Tuvaluans resident inAustralia

Methodology

This research is concerned with hearing understanding and communicating local voices Itelicits and disseminates the values and concerns of three different groups about being ldquoatthe waterrsquos edgerdquo in times of uncertainty due to climate change Three groups which par-ticipated in the Floating Land event were targeted in this research to provide contrasting

Local Environment 639

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

perceptions of climate change They comprised (1) visiting international and domesticartists who created their art and held workshops (2) Boreen Point community memberswho have experienced severe flooding are aware of the negative as well as positiveimpacts of living at the waterrsquos edge and as hosts of the event had to deal with implicationsof the visiting population on their small lake-side community and (3) visitors to the 10-dayevent who formed a temporary learning and sharing community during the festival whoprovided contrasting perspectives from a ldquobroader societyrdquo not linked to a specific placeand who had the capacity to bring in and disseminate ldquooutwardsrdquo local and regional views

A visual research technique photovoice was used to elicit and share their values aboutbeing at the waterrsquos edge in a time of climate change and rising sea levels Photovoice hasprimarily been applied in community development with four main goals (a) to engagepeople in active listening and dialogue (b) to create a safe environment for introspection andcritical reflection (c) to move people towards action and (d) to inform the broader society tohelp facilitate community change (Carlson et al 2006) It enables disadvantaged groups tohave a continuing conversation based on photos they take of their surroundings which arethen presented to decision-makers or media to convey their perspectives on significant commu-nity issues The photovoice methodology includes critical reflection through participantsselecting photographs for discussion contextualising and storytelling codifying issuesthemes and theories and writing down stories (Wang and Burris 1997 Wang et al 1998Wang 2001) It functions to empower the participants as it is ldquorespondent generated datardquoand it is an innovative and engaging method of primary data collection It was relevant toour aim of understanding and communicating diverse social constructions of climate change

The photovoice method used in this research not only captures the groupsrsquo values andconcerns about climate change and sustainability visually and orally but provides an inno-vative and reflective method for demonstrating these values to the broader community Ourresearch took an already unique and engaging method for ldquovoicingrdquo community views andbroadened its application to eliciting and sharing values about climate change and sustain-ability in the context of place using digital technologies This allowed it to be adapted forextension purposes on the internet to contribute to a global conversation

The process used was as follows

(1) Participants in each of the three groups were briefed about the project early in theevent and asked to commit to all stages

(2) Participants took photos at their convenience during the festival which represent(a) what they value about being at the waterrsquos edge(b) what they perceive to be threats about being at the waterrsquos edge(c) what they value about the Floating Land event as a vehicle for sharing and

communicating ideas about climate change rising seas and sustainable living(3) From all their images each participant selected nine photos (three representing

each theme) and discussed their photos in a focus group to share their perspectivesEach of the three focus groups selected photos and collaboratively wrote captionswhich group members agreed portrayed their views and represented the groupmeaning (perspectives) (Figure 1)

(4) The photos were printed and displayed on boards in the ldquoBig Toprdquo on the last day ofthe festival (Figure 2) Each group then presented their photos and captions electro-nically (in a PowerPoint presentation) to a wider public audience

(5) A brief survey was used to determine the impact of the project and presentations onboth the participants and the broader audience A Likert scale was used to respondto the following questions To what extent has this project

640 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

(a) Stimulated your curiosity or interest to find out more about climate change(b) Raised your awareness about climate change issues(c) Improved your understanding of othersrsquo perspectives about climate change(d) Reinforced your existing views about climate change(e) Shifted your views about climate change(f) Encouraged you to take action about climate change

Participants were also asked open-ended questions For example ldquoidentify upto 3 photos that affected you or resonated most with you Give the numberfrom the display or describerdquo

(6) The images were displayed on the web after the event with an opportunity forpublic input and response (Floating Land 2009)

On a practical level sound preparation and organisation were essential to implementthe technique at a time-constrained event The project was advertised early as part of theFloating Land festival and participants needed to have digital cameras and be availablefor both a briefing at the commencement of the project and for a focus group towardsthe end Computers portable printers and a digital projector were available in a marqueetent as were display boards for displaying hard copies of the photos Facilitators ofthe focus groups were experienced and managed each group process in less than 90 minA technician was available to place the photos in the order requested for the grouppresentations

Outcomesanalysis

We were specifically interested in observing whether there were commonalities or differ-ences in the constructs expressed by the three different groups concerning values andthreats associated with being at the waterrsquos edge in times of climate change In particularwe were interested in whether local perspectives differed from those of the other twogroups ndash artists and visitors ndash who did not reside at this specific place We alsosought to understand the influence of the photovoice project on both participantsrsquo and

Figure 1 Focus group with Boreen Point residents

Local Environment 641

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

non-participantsrsquo awareness understanding of othersrsquo perspectives and desire to takeaction on climate change While the literature demonstrates the empowering qualitiesof photovoice for participants (Wang et al 1998) the potential for a photovoice presen-tation to influence observers or the audience is an identified gap in the research (Baldwin2008)

Sixteen participants in total comprised the three separate focus groups with four artistseight local residents and four visitors A notable observation by the researchers was howquickly the participants collaborated on selecting photos and agreeing on photo captionsfor the public presentation on the final day This applied to all groups the artists and visitorswho did not know each other as well as the Boreen Point group who later commented onthe fact that previous differences did not prevent them from reaching consensus on the ideasthey wished to communicate There appeared to be a shared sense of the importance ofworking together for a ldquogreater goodrdquo the community and the future There was alsoeasy agreement about who would present to the public on the final day of the festival

Photos chosen by all groups illustrated commonalities with shared concerns about theenvironment and threat of climate change The value of place and being at the waterrsquos edgeand specifically the beauty and tranquillity of Boreen Point and the lake was anotherrecurring theme (Figures 3 and 4)

While common ground was revealed among all participants it was also clearly evidentthat there were differences between photos taken by locals and the other two groups Artiststended to take aesthetic photos and frequently chose the environmental art works as theirsubject matter In addition their captions often involved the use of written metaphorssuch as ldquoreeds as marker sticks of changerdquo (Figure 5) In contrast local residents paidless attention to providing aestheticised views and instead took photos of local issuesand local actions such as plastic litter (Figure 6) and residents at a working bee pullingout weeds Residentsrsquo perspectives were more grounded and frequently identified practicalsolutions thus revealing their local knowledge and experience in relation to this particularlocation These differing approaches were clearly communicated to those attending thepublic forum with all but three of the 23 respondents to the survey (over 85) noticing

Figure 2 Display on final day

642 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Figure 3 Our livelihood threatened ndash what are we going to eat

Figure 4 Will it be here when they grow up

Figure 5 Rising levels Reeds as marker sticks of change (artist)

Local Environment 643

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

differences in the three groupsrsquo perspectives These perceptions were supported with com-ments such as the following

The visitors had a broader perspective amp ldquoworld viewrdquo whereas the residents focused more onlocal effects of people and climate change

Artists were more image based visitors showed a diversity of views While residentsrsquo pic-tures conveyed a mood of appreciating what we have but also what might be good and bad

The artists were looking more at aesthetic representations of climate issues in contrast to theresidentsrsquo metaphors with everyday life I found the residentsrsquo representations most insightful

The expression of diverse perspectives facilitated by the photovoice process occurred onseveral levels The dialogue that emerged during focus groups as participants discussed theissues and put together their presentations was important for consensus-building withingroups and empowerment of the participants However we were also interested to discoverways in which communication extended beyond the individual groups by asking attendees atthe presentation to complete the questionnaire at the end of the talk Of the 23 survey respon-dents 9 did not participate in photovoice groups and could be considered a more ldquoobjectiverdquoaudience for the remainder it was the first time they had seen the other groupsrsquo photos

Additionally we surveyed which photos resonated most with or had the strongestimpact on observers at the final presentation The two most frequently selected photoswere not particularly aesthetic or subtle however they were strong direct and memorableimages Furthermore they communicate clear messages concerning action and a need tochange (Figures 7 and 8)

In commenting on the impact of the presentations only 56 of all survey respondentsconfirmed that the photovoice project raised their awareness of climate change However71 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project reinforced their views withseveral respondents commenting that they already had a high level of awareness ofclimate change Nevertheless there was evidence that the presentations had providedgreater clarity and an awareness of othersrsquo perspectives As one respondent remarked

Irsquom already a convinced activist ndash but this project has pinned down the issues on a local level

Figure 6 Who cares Chain reaction people fish birds (resident)

644 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Importantly 91 indicated that the presentations increased their understanding of othersrsquoviews and this was common to all participant groups In addition a high percentage773 felt that the Floating Land event affected their interest and awareness of climatechange revealing the value of diverse forms of communication in addressing climatechange issues

Figure 7 The end of the ldquogood yearsrdquo (visitor)

Figure 8 Are we still asleep Why do not we do something (resident)

Local Environment 645

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

The Floating Land Event is a wonderful opportunity to meet discuss and seek alternatives ndashwith fellow residents as well as visitors of all shades and cultures

been aware of these issues but meeting Tuvalu people and seeing photos of Tuvalu hashad a significant impact

The impact of the images and related captions in motivating participants was also evident as69 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project encouraged them to take actionwith comments including

I feel that personally and collectively there needs to be less talk and more action

Helped us decide to be more active in the cause

Of interest is that only three of the nine (33) non-photovoice group respondents indicatedthat the project influenced them to a large degree in their responses to questions aboutstimulating interest raising awareness shifting their views and encouraging them totake action in climate change While the sample is not large enough to draw substantiveconclusions it does suggest that participating directly in the photovoice experiencewould have greater impact than simply observing the output consistent with communitydevelopment literature (Ife and Tesoriero 2006)

In these ways the photovoice project gave voice to local people whose knowledge wasgrounded in the specific and juxtaposed these views with those of two groups who broughtin ldquooutsiderrdquo perspectives This facilitated an increased understanding of commonalitiesand differences generated consensus concerning climate change and was effective inencouraging many of the photovoice participants to take action (Figure 9)

Conclusionssignificance of the research

The ldquoat the waterrsquos edgerdquo photovoice project was found to be effective in expressing threedifferent groupsrsquo values about climate change It implemented the following

illustrated common ground among the three groups in terms of sense of place caringfor place and concern about climate change

Figure 9 The time for contemplation is over (visitor)

646 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

empowered individuals fostered expression and promoted understanding andawareness of differing perspectives among different groups and

motivated participants to take action about climate change (although whether they door not is not tested by this methodology)

These findings are inter-related in terms of prompting social action Reconciling differ-ences identifying common ground and building consensus are important precursors to col-laboration and collective action The critical reflection components of the photovoicemethodology that occur while taking photos during group interaction and during the pres-entation of photos contribute to a re-evaluation of onersquos experience and social learningVisual images engage the emotions (Mason 2004) and are a useful way to communicatedeeply held views (Wang et al 1998) The capacity of images to communicate in termsof metaphor and to convey multilayered meanings draw out feelings and emotions in exter-nal parties as well as in participants Furthermore Carlson et al (2006) claim that thephotovoice method contributes to social change because it challenges assumptionsembedded in cultural norms and elicits emotional engagement critical reflection cognitiveawakening and the intention to act Thus it can contribute to the ldquonew lsquolevels of con-sciousnessrsquo required to address the substantial lsquoproblemrsquo of climate changerdquo (Pettenger2007 p 3) We suggest that photovoice as a visualisation technique demonstrated that itcould contribute to building both ldquobondingrdquo and ldquobridgingrdquo social capital (Putnam2000) local participants indicated that they cooperated much more than usual (bonding)all participants indicated increased awareness of othersrsquo perspectives (bridging)

The outcomes also reflected the interplay between local and global issues and actionAll groups identified critical issues at a global scale for example the photo of sails onthe lake titled ldquoThe last fleet leaves Tuvalu after the Arctic ice sheet meltsrdquo They alsoidentified the need for collective action with a photo of a rainbow over the lake titledldquoAlways hope when people share ideasrdquo and another photo of footprints in the sand entitledldquoEveryone owns the waterrsquos edgerdquo It appeared though that it is easier to identify specificactions when they are associated with a ldquoplacerdquo as residents addressed the issues from aspecific and local perspective This was illustrated by an array of residentsrsquo photos whichincluded ldquocombating invasive weedsrdquo ldquopeople own the streets not carsrdquo and a dysfunc-tional stormwater drain By drawing out values as well as threats the project shiftedlocal participants from a sense of powerlessness in relation to climate change to a senseof hope and recognition that their collaborative actions were meaningful In additionsharing their personal constructs about climate change elicited a strong need to act nowamong participants Thus this research has broader implications as it advances understand-ings of perceptions and social constructions of climate change ndash an emerging and criticalarea of international research

As a case study of a specific regional event within the NBR this research contributes tothe Councilrsquos and NBRrsquos measurable identifiers of progress towards its and UNESCOrsquosMan and the Biosphere objectives ndash to ldquodemonstrate innovative approaches to conservationand sustainable developmentrdquo and to produce and disseminate research findings interna-tionally which ldquopromote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans andthe biosphererdquo (UNESCO 2002 p 198) Such events represent social learning environ-ments ldquoto experiment with and showcase various approachesrdquo to sustainability ldquothat are cul-turally relevant to local communitiesrdquo (UNESCO 2002) Moreover set within the context ofthe NBR governance arrangements with its partnering sector boards the engaging photo-voice project and Floating Land event contributed to building adaptive capacity andreinforced the essential role of local people This research makes explicit Biosphere

Local Environment 647

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

goals concerning environmental awareness and stewardship by eliciting and communicat-ing differing communitiesrsquo views about ldquobeingrdquo and living at the waterrsquos edge By placingthe outcomes on the internet we showcase the approach and offer the technique as one thatcould be applied elsewhere among even more disparate groups to address issues such assustainability climate change mitigation and adaptation To further fulfil the potential ofsuch methods to break unsustainable patterns and inspire transformation this projectcould be used as a basis for a council-wide or even global project whereby local groupsgenerate their own narratives about climate change issues opportunities and actionThese could then be presented to relevant decision-makers in their communities andcould contribute to a global website promoting climate action

Photovoice has often been used as part of longer term community development projectsand can be implemented in many different ways In this case the time constraints appearedto focus the participants on reaching a consensus on photo-selection captions and the pres-entation format quickly while still capturing all voices While it could be argued that theproject involved groups already interested in climate change issues the value that partici-pants placed on sharing and appreciating different viewpoints suggests that the process hasmerit in fostering understanding and collaborative action Ultimately the project illustrateda specific approach which was both enjoyable and engaging for future self-organising ofcommunity groups around complex issues It promoted dialogue and understanding ofothersrsquo perspectives and effectively fostered social capital as a basis for building commu-nity resilience during times of uncertainty

AcknowledgementsWe appreciate the time and effort of all the participants of the ldquoAt the Waterrsquos Edgerdquo photovoiceproject the support of organisers of the Floating Land event and University of the Sunshine Coastfor funding

ReferencesAbel N et al 1998 Mental models and communication in agriculture Canberra ACT Rural

Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No 98140Adger W et al 2005 Social-ecological resilience to coastal disasters Science 309 (5737)

1036ndash1039Baldwin C 2008 Integrating values and interest in water planning using a consensus-building

approach Thesis (PhD) The University of QueenslandBaldwin C and Bycroft P 2009 Governance options for maintaining values in times of change In

Proceedings people and the sea V ldquoliving with uncertainty and adapting to changerdquoAmsterdam The Netherlands Centre for Maritime Research (MARE) 1ndash31

Ballinger C 2006 Preface In K Wilson ed Creative territories site specific art as communionTewantin QLD Noosa Council 3ndash4

Bressers H and Kuks S 2003 What does ldquogovernancerdquo means From conception to elaboration InH Bressers and W Rosenbaum eds Achieving sustainable development the challenge ofgovernance across social scales Westport CT Praeger 65ndash88

Carlson E Engebretson J and Chamberlain R 2006 Photovoice as a social process of criticalconsciousness Qualitative Health Research 16 (6) 836ndash852

Cheong S 2008 Controlling the coast Ocean and Coastal Management 51 (5) 391ndash396Cornelius H 1998 The gentle revolution summary Chatswood NSW Simon and SchusterDinsdale E and Fenton M 2006 Assessing coral reef condition eliciting community meanings

Society and Natural Resources 19 (3) 239ndash258Floating Land 2009 Photovoice research project [online] Available from httpwwwfloatingland

comau [Accessed 12 December 2009]Harding R ed 1998 Environmental decision-making Annandale NSW The Federation Press

648 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

sustainable economic development beyond defined protected areas through partnershipsthat include local people (UNESCO 2002)

In 2008 structural reform of local governments in the state of Queensland resulted inthe former Noosa Shire being amalgamated with two adjacent councils to become the Sun-shine Coast Regional Council in spite of much local opposition The previous Noosa ShireCouncil had a long-established reputation and demonstrated values about conservingnatural assets preserving visual amenity of both the built and natural environment (land-scapes and seascapes) and a growing sense of community and sense of place through main-taining a village atmosphere (Baldwin and Bycroft 2009) The Council had been a leader inpromoting community involvement and partnerships and for several years had fosteredcommunity engagement and capacity-building through sector-based community advisoryboards To facilitate NBR functions the new Sunshine Coast Regional Council is thesole member (shareholder) of a company limited by guarantee The previous NoosaShire Council-established Community Boards have evolved to become six Noosa Bio-sphere Community Sector Boards which encompass cultural economic environmentsocial education research and development sectors and Tourism Noosa

The Biosphere Reserve governance model and consultative processes aim to ensureleadership accountability and transparency in resourcing its activity while enabling com-munity to develop and direct activities In accordance with sound governance theory(Cheong 2008 Webbe and Weller 2008) the success of the Biosphere Reserve relies onits ability to form strong partnerships with government agencies international organis-ations the private business sector and the community Project delivery will rely on arange of funding mechanisms as well as volunteerism Thus to function effectively requiresactive involvement and the commitment of all stakeholders and local people have asignificant role to play

This commitment to community involvement and environmental awareness that charac-terised the previous Council and now the new Council has been evidenced in manyspheres including the creative sector Since 2001 a biennial site-specific environmentalart event ldquoFloating Landrdquo sponsored by Noosa Regional Gallery has been held in theNoosa area The aim of this event has been to stimulate dialogue about environmentalissues In June 2009 the art event was held at Boreen Point on Lake Cootharaba about20 min by car northwest of the tourist town of Noosa Heads The Sunshine Coast RegionalCouncil (2010) identified the Floating Land project which involves partnership with thecommunity industry and researcheducation groups as an example of how some of theNBR aims might be manifest by providing an opportunity to demonstrate and appreciateNoosa Biosphere values It was also seen as a forum for reflecting the aims of the newregional Council in addressing issues of sustainability ldquoenvironmental excellencerdquo andldquothe determination of the community to ensure the protection of this heritagerdquo (Ballinger2006 p 3) Our research project was scheduled as an event within the 2009 FloatingLand festival which explored the theme of ldquorising seas and changing climaterdquo with a par-ticular focus on the south Pacific enhanced by participation of Tuvaluans resident inAustralia

Methodology

This research is concerned with hearing understanding and communicating local voices Itelicits and disseminates the values and concerns of three different groups about being ldquoatthe waterrsquos edgerdquo in times of uncertainty due to climate change Three groups which par-ticipated in the Floating Land event were targeted in this research to provide contrasting

Local Environment 639

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

perceptions of climate change They comprised (1) visiting international and domesticartists who created their art and held workshops (2) Boreen Point community memberswho have experienced severe flooding are aware of the negative as well as positiveimpacts of living at the waterrsquos edge and as hosts of the event had to deal with implicationsof the visiting population on their small lake-side community and (3) visitors to the 10-dayevent who formed a temporary learning and sharing community during the festival whoprovided contrasting perspectives from a ldquobroader societyrdquo not linked to a specific placeand who had the capacity to bring in and disseminate ldquooutwardsrdquo local and regional views

A visual research technique photovoice was used to elicit and share their values aboutbeing at the waterrsquos edge in a time of climate change and rising sea levels Photovoice hasprimarily been applied in community development with four main goals (a) to engagepeople in active listening and dialogue (b) to create a safe environment for introspection andcritical reflection (c) to move people towards action and (d) to inform the broader society tohelp facilitate community change (Carlson et al 2006) It enables disadvantaged groups tohave a continuing conversation based on photos they take of their surroundings which arethen presented to decision-makers or media to convey their perspectives on significant commu-nity issues The photovoice methodology includes critical reflection through participantsselecting photographs for discussion contextualising and storytelling codifying issuesthemes and theories and writing down stories (Wang and Burris 1997 Wang et al 1998Wang 2001) It functions to empower the participants as it is ldquorespondent generated datardquoand it is an innovative and engaging method of primary data collection It was relevant toour aim of understanding and communicating diverse social constructions of climate change

The photovoice method used in this research not only captures the groupsrsquo values andconcerns about climate change and sustainability visually and orally but provides an inno-vative and reflective method for demonstrating these values to the broader community Ourresearch took an already unique and engaging method for ldquovoicingrdquo community views andbroadened its application to eliciting and sharing values about climate change and sustain-ability in the context of place using digital technologies This allowed it to be adapted forextension purposes on the internet to contribute to a global conversation

The process used was as follows

(1) Participants in each of the three groups were briefed about the project early in theevent and asked to commit to all stages

(2) Participants took photos at their convenience during the festival which represent(a) what they value about being at the waterrsquos edge(b) what they perceive to be threats about being at the waterrsquos edge(c) what they value about the Floating Land event as a vehicle for sharing and

communicating ideas about climate change rising seas and sustainable living(3) From all their images each participant selected nine photos (three representing

each theme) and discussed their photos in a focus group to share their perspectivesEach of the three focus groups selected photos and collaboratively wrote captionswhich group members agreed portrayed their views and represented the groupmeaning (perspectives) (Figure 1)

(4) The photos were printed and displayed on boards in the ldquoBig Toprdquo on the last day ofthe festival (Figure 2) Each group then presented their photos and captions electro-nically (in a PowerPoint presentation) to a wider public audience

(5) A brief survey was used to determine the impact of the project and presentations onboth the participants and the broader audience A Likert scale was used to respondto the following questions To what extent has this project

640 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

(a) Stimulated your curiosity or interest to find out more about climate change(b) Raised your awareness about climate change issues(c) Improved your understanding of othersrsquo perspectives about climate change(d) Reinforced your existing views about climate change(e) Shifted your views about climate change(f) Encouraged you to take action about climate change

Participants were also asked open-ended questions For example ldquoidentify upto 3 photos that affected you or resonated most with you Give the numberfrom the display or describerdquo

(6) The images were displayed on the web after the event with an opportunity forpublic input and response (Floating Land 2009)

On a practical level sound preparation and organisation were essential to implementthe technique at a time-constrained event The project was advertised early as part of theFloating Land festival and participants needed to have digital cameras and be availablefor both a briefing at the commencement of the project and for a focus group towardsthe end Computers portable printers and a digital projector were available in a marqueetent as were display boards for displaying hard copies of the photos Facilitators ofthe focus groups were experienced and managed each group process in less than 90 minA technician was available to place the photos in the order requested for the grouppresentations

Outcomesanalysis

We were specifically interested in observing whether there were commonalities or differ-ences in the constructs expressed by the three different groups concerning values andthreats associated with being at the waterrsquos edge in times of climate change In particularwe were interested in whether local perspectives differed from those of the other twogroups ndash artists and visitors ndash who did not reside at this specific place We alsosought to understand the influence of the photovoice project on both participantsrsquo and

Figure 1 Focus group with Boreen Point residents

Local Environment 641

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

non-participantsrsquo awareness understanding of othersrsquo perspectives and desire to takeaction on climate change While the literature demonstrates the empowering qualitiesof photovoice for participants (Wang et al 1998) the potential for a photovoice presen-tation to influence observers or the audience is an identified gap in the research (Baldwin2008)

Sixteen participants in total comprised the three separate focus groups with four artistseight local residents and four visitors A notable observation by the researchers was howquickly the participants collaborated on selecting photos and agreeing on photo captionsfor the public presentation on the final day This applied to all groups the artists and visitorswho did not know each other as well as the Boreen Point group who later commented onthe fact that previous differences did not prevent them from reaching consensus on the ideasthey wished to communicate There appeared to be a shared sense of the importance ofworking together for a ldquogreater goodrdquo the community and the future There was alsoeasy agreement about who would present to the public on the final day of the festival

Photos chosen by all groups illustrated commonalities with shared concerns about theenvironment and threat of climate change The value of place and being at the waterrsquos edgeand specifically the beauty and tranquillity of Boreen Point and the lake was anotherrecurring theme (Figures 3 and 4)

While common ground was revealed among all participants it was also clearly evidentthat there were differences between photos taken by locals and the other two groups Artiststended to take aesthetic photos and frequently chose the environmental art works as theirsubject matter In addition their captions often involved the use of written metaphorssuch as ldquoreeds as marker sticks of changerdquo (Figure 5) In contrast local residents paidless attention to providing aestheticised views and instead took photos of local issuesand local actions such as plastic litter (Figure 6) and residents at a working bee pullingout weeds Residentsrsquo perspectives were more grounded and frequently identified practicalsolutions thus revealing their local knowledge and experience in relation to this particularlocation These differing approaches were clearly communicated to those attending thepublic forum with all but three of the 23 respondents to the survey (over 85) noticing

Figure 2 Display on final day

642 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Figure 3 Our livelihood threatened ndash what are we going to eat

Figure 4 Will it be here when they grow up

Figure 5 Rising levels Reeds as marker sticks of change (artist)

Local Environment 643

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

differences in the three groupsrsquo perspectives These perceptions were supported with com-ments such as the following

The visitors had a broader perspective amp ldquoworld viewrdquo whereas the residents focused more onlocal effects of people and climate change

Artists were more image based visitors showed a diversity of views While residentsrsquo pic-tures conveyed a mood of appreciating what we have but also what might be good and bad

The artists were looking more at aesthetic representations of climate issues in contrast to theresidentsrsquo metaphors with everyday life I found the residentsrsquo representations most insightful

The expression of diverse perspectives facilitated by the photovoice process occurred onseveral levels The dialogue that emerged during focus groups as participants discussed theissues and put together their presentations was important for consensus-building withingroups and empowerment of the participants However we were also interested to discoverways in which communication extended beyond the individual groups by asking attendees atthe presentation to complete the questionnaire at the end of the talk Of the 23 survey respon-dents 9 did not participate in photovoice groups and could be considered a more ldquoobjectiverdquoaudience for the remainder it was the first time they had seen the other groupsrsquo photos

Additionally we surveyed which photos resonated most with or had the strongestimpact on observers at the final presentation The two most frequently selected photoswere not particularly aesthetic or subtle however they were strong direct and memorableimages Furthermore they communicate clear messages concerning action and a need tochange (Figures 7 and 8)

In commenting on the impact of the presentations only 56 of all survey respondentsconfirmed that the photovoice project raised their awareness of climate change However71 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project reinforced their views withseveral respondents commenting that they already had a high level of awareness ofclimate change Nevertheless there was evidence that the presentations had providedgreater clarity and an awareness of othersrsquo perspectives As one respondent remarked

Irsquom already a convinced activist ndash but this project has pinned down the issues on a local level

Figure 6 Who cares Chain reaction people fish birds (resident)

644 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Importantly 91 indicated that the presentations increased their understanding of othersrsquoviews and this was common to all participant groups In addition a high percentage773 felt that the Floating Land event affected their interest and awareness of climatechange revealing the value of diverse forms of communication in addressing climatechange issues

Figure 7 The end of the ldquogood yearsrdquo (visitor)

Figure 8 Are we still asleep Why do not we do something (resident)

Local Environment 645

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

The Floating Land Event is a wonderful opportunity to meet discuss and seek alternatives ndashwith fellow residents as well as visitors of all shades and cultures

been aware of these issues but meeting Tuvalu people and seeing photos of Tuvalu hashad a significant impact

The impact of the images and related captions in motivating participants was also evident as69 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project encouraged them to take actionwith comments including

I feel that personally and collectively there needs to be less talk and more action

Helped us decide to be more active in the cause

Of interest is that only three of the nine (33) non-photovoice group respondents indicatedthat the project influenced them to a large degree in their responses to questions aboutstimulating interest raising awareness shifting their views and encouraging them totake action in climate change While the sample is not large enough to draw substantiveconclusions it does suggest that participating directly in the photovoice experiencewould have greater impact than simply observing the output consistent with communitydevelopment literature (Ife and Tesoriero 2006)

In these ways the photovoice project gave voice to local people whose knowledge wasgrounded in the specific and juxtaposed these views with those of two groups who broughtin ldquooutsiderrdquo perspectives This facilitated an increased understanding of commonalitiesand differences generated consensus concerning climate change and was effective inencouraging many of the photovoice participants to take action (Figure 9)

Conclusionssignificance of the research

The ldquoat the waterrsquos edgerdquo photovoice project was found to be effective in expressing threedifferent groupsrsquo values about climate change It implemented the following

illustrated common ground among the three groups in terms of sense of place caringfor place and concern about climate change

Figure 9 The time for contemplation is over (visitor)

646 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

empowered individuals fostered expression and promoted understanding andawareness of differing perspectives among different groups and

motivated participants to take action about climate change (although whether they door not is not tested by this methodology)

These findings are inter-related in terms of prompting social action Reconciling differ-ences identifying common ground and building consensus are important precursors to col-laboration and collective action The critical reflection components of the photovoicemethodology that occur while taking photos during group interaction and during the pres-entation of photos contribute to a re-evaluation of onersquos experience and social learningVisual images engage the emotions (Mason 2004) and are a useful way to communicatedeeply held views (Wang et al 1998) The capacity of images to communicate in termsof metaphor and to convey multilayered meanings draw out feelings and emotions in exter-nal parties as well as in participants Furthermore Carlson et al (2006) claim that thephotovoice method contributes to social change because it challenges assumptionsembedded in cultural norms and elicits emotional engagement critical reflection cognitiveawakening and the intention to act Thus it can contribute to the ldquonew lsquolevels of con-sciousnessrsquo required to address the substantial lsquoproblemrsquo of climate changerdquo (Pettenger2007 p 3) We suggest that photovoice as a visualisation technique demonstrated that itcould contribute to building both ldquobondingrdquo and ldquobridgingrdquo social capital (Putnam2000) local participants indicated that they cooperated much more than usual (bonding)all participants indicated increased awareness of othersrsquo perspectives (bridging)

The outcomes also reflected the interplay between local and global issues and actionAll groups identified critical issues at a global scale for example the photo of sails onthe lake titled ldquoThe last fleet leaves Tuvalu after the Arctic ice sheet meltsrdquo They alsoidentified the need for collective action with a photo of a rainbow over the lake titledldquoAlways hope when people share ideasrdquo and another photo of footprints in the sand entitledldquoEveryone owns the waterrsquos edgerdquo It appeared though that it is easier to identify specificactions when they are associated with a ldquoplacerdquo as residents addressed the issues from aspecific and local perspective This was illustrated by an array of residentsrsquo photos whichincluded ldquocombating invasive weedsrdquo ldquopeople own the streets not carsrdquo and a dysfunc-tional stormwater drain By drawing out values as well as threats the project shiftedlocal participants from a sense of powerlessness in relation to climate change to a senseof hope and recognition that their collaborative actions were meaningful In additionsharing their personal constructs about climate change elicited a strong need to act nowamong participants Thus this research has broader implications as it advances understand-ings of perceptions and social constructions of climate change ndash an emerging and criticalarea of international research

As a case study of a specific regional event within the NBR this research contributes tothe Councilrsquos and NBRrsquos measurable identifiers of progress towards its and UNESCOrsquosMan and the Biosphere objectives ndash to ldquodemonstrate innovative approaches to conservationand sustainable developmentrdquo and to produce and disseminate research findings interna-tionally which ldquopromote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans andthe biosphererdquo (UNESCO 2002 p 198) Such events represent social learning environ-ments ldquoto experiment with and showcase various approachesrdquo to sustainability ldquothat are cul-turally relevant to local communitiesrdquo (UNESCO 2002) Moreover set within the context ofthe NBR governance arrangements with its partnering sector boards the engaging photo-voice project and Floating Land event contributed to building adaptive capacity andreinforced the essential role of local people This research makes explicit Biosphere

Local Environment 647

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

goals concerning environmental awareness and stewardship by eliciting and communicat-ing differing communitiesrsquo views about ldquobeingrdquo and living at the waterrsquos edge By placingthe outcomes on the internet we showcase the approach and offer the technique as one thatcould be applied elsewhere among even more disparate groups to address issues such assustainability climate change mitigation and adaptation To further fulfil the potential ofsuch methods to break unsustainable patterns and inspire transformation this projectcould be used as a basis for a council-wide or even global project whereby local groupsgenerate their own narratives about climate change issues opportunities and actionThese could then be presented to relevant decision-makers in their communities andcould contribute to a global website promoting climate action

Photovoice has often been used as part of longer term community development projectsand can be implemented in many different ways In this case the time constraints appearedto focus the participants on reaching a consensus on photo-selection captions and the pres-entation format quickly while still capturing all voices While it could be argued that theproject involved groups already interested in climate change issues the value that partici-pants placed on sharing and appreciating different viewpoints suggests that the process hasmerit in fostering understanding and collaborative action Ultimately the project illustrateda specific approach which was both enjoyable and engaging for future self-organising ofcommunity groups around complex issues It promoted dialogue and understanding ofothersrsquo perspectives and effectively fostered social capital as a basis for building commu-nity resilience during times of uncertainty

AcknowledgementsWe appreciate the time and effort of all the participants of the ldquoAt the Waterrsquos Edgerdquo photovoiceproject the support of organisers of the Floating Land event and University of the Sunshine Coastfor funding

ReferencesAbel N et al 1998 Mental models and communication in agriculture Canberra ACT Rural

Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No 98140Adger W et al 2005 Social-ecological resilience to coastal disasters Science 309 (5737)

1036ndash1039Baldwin C 2008 Integrating values and interest in water planning using a consensus-building

approach Thesis (PhD) The University of QueenslandBaldwin C and Bycroft P 2009 Governance options for maintaining values in times of change In

Proceedings people and the sea V ldquoliving with uncertainty and adapting to changerdquoAmsterdam The Netherlands Centre for Maritime Research (MARE) 1ndash31

Ballinger C 2006 Preface In K Wilson ed Creative territories site specific art as communionTewantin QLD Noosa Council 3ndash4

Bressers H and Kuks S 2003 What does ldquogovernancerdquo means From conception to elaboration InH Bressers and W Rosenbaum eds Achieving sustainable development the challenge ofgovernance across social scales Westport CT Praeger 65ndash88

Carlson E Engebretson J and Chamberlain R 2006 Photovoice as a social process of criticalconsciousness Qualitative Health Research 16 (6) 836ndash852

Cheong S 2008 Controlling the coast Ocean and Coastal Management 51 (5) 391ndash396Cornelius H 1998 The gentle revolution summary Chatswood NSW Simon and SchusterDinsdale E and Fenton M 2006 Assessing coral reef condition eliciting community meanings

Society and Natural Resources 19 (3) 239ndash258Floating Land 2009 Photovoice research project [online] Available from httpwwwfloatingland

comau [Accessed 12 December 2009]Harding R ed 1998 Environmental decision-making Annandale NSW The Federation Press

648 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

perceptions of climate change They comprised (1) visiting international and domesticartists who created their art and held workshops (2) Boreen Point community memberswho have experienced severe flooding are aware of the negative as well as positiveimpacts of living at the waterrsquos edge and as hosts of the event had to deal with implicationsof the visiting population on their small lake-side community and (3) visitors to the 10-dayevent who formed a temporary learning and sharing community during the festival whoprovided contrasting perspectives from a ldquobroader societyrdquo not linked to a specific placeand who had the capacity to bring in and disseminate ldquooutwardsrdquo local and regional views

A visual research technique photovoice was used to elicit and share their values aboutbeing at the waterrsquos edge in a time of climate change and rising sea levels Photovoice hasprimarily been applied in community development with four main goals (a) to engagepeople in active listening and dialogue (b) to create a safe environment for introspection andcritical reflection (c) to move people towards action and (d) to inform the broader society tohelp facilitate community change (Carlson et al 2006) It enables disadvantaged groups tohave a continuing conversation based on photos they take of their surroundings which arethen presented to decision-makers or media to convey their perspectives on significant commu-nity issues The photovoice methodology includes critical reflection through participantsselecting photographs for discussion contextualising and storytelling codifying issuesthemes and theories and writing down stories (Wang and Burris 1997 Wang et al 1998Wang 2001) It functions to empower the participants as it is ldquorespondent generated datardquoand it is an innovative and engaging method of primary data collection It was relevant toour aim of understanding and communicating diverse social constructions of climate change

The photovoice method used in this research not only captures the groupsrsquo values andconcerns about climate change and sustainability visually and orally but provides an inno-vative and reflective method for demonstrating these values to the broader community Ourresearch took an already unique and engaging method for ldquovoicingrdquo community views andbroadened its application to eliciting and sharing values about climate change and sustain-ability in the context of place using digital technologies This allowed it to be adapted forextension purposes on the internet to contribute to a global conversation

The process used was as follows

(1) Participants in each of the three groups were briefed about the project early in theevent and asked to commit to all stages

(2) Participants took photos at their convenience during the festival which represent(a) what they value about being at the waterrsquos edge(b) what they perceive to be threats about being at the waterrsquos edge(c) what they value about the Floating Land event as a vehicle for sharing and

communicating ideas about climate change rising seas and sustainable living(3) From all their images each participant selected nine photos (three representing

each theme) and discussed their photos in a focus group to share their perspectivesEach of the three focus groups selected photos and collaboratively wrote captionswhich group members agreed portrayed their views and represented the groupmeaning (perspectives) (Figure 1)

(4) The photos were printed and displayed on boards in the ldquoBig Toprdquo on the last day ofthe festival (Figure 2) Each group then presented their photos and captions electro-nically (in a PowerPoint presentation) to a wider public audience

(5) A brief survey was used to determine the impact of the project and presentations onboth the participants and the broader audience A Likert scale was used to respondto the following questions To what extent has this project

640 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

(a) Stimulated your curiosity or interest to find out more about climate change(b) Raised your awareness about climate change issues(c) Improved your understanding of othersrsquo perspectives about climate change(d) Reinforced your existing views about climate change(e) Shifted your views about climate change(f) Encouraged you to take action about climate change

Participants were also asked open-ended questions For example ldquoidentify upto 3 photos that affected you or resonated most with you Give the numberfrom the display or describerdquo

(6) The images were displayed on the web after the event with an opportunity forpublic input and response (Floating Land 2009)

On a practical level sound preparation and organisation were essential to implementthe technique at a time-constrained event The project was advertised early as part of theFloating Land festival and participants needed to have digital cameras and be availablefor both a briefing at the commencement of the project and for a focus group towardsthe end Computers portable printers and a digital projector were available in a marqueetent as were display boards for displaying hard copies of the photos Facilitators ofthe focus groups were experienced and managed each group process in less than 90 minA technician was available to place the photos in the order requested for the grouppresentations

Outcomesanalysis

We were specifically interested in observing whether there were commonalities or differ-ences in the constructs expressed by the three different groups concerning values andthreats associated with being at the waterrsquos edge in times of climate change In particularwe were interested in whether local perspectives differed from those of the other twogroups ndash artists and visitors ndash who did not reside at this specific place We alsosought to understand the influence of the photovoice project on both participantsrsquo and

Figure 1 Focus group with Boreen Point residents

Local Environment 641

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

non-participantsrsquo awareness understanding of othersrsquo perspectives and desire to takeaction on climate change While the literature demonstrates the empowering qualitiesof photovoice for participants (Wang et al 1998) the potential for a photovoice presen-tation to influence observers or the audience is an identified gap in the research (Baldwin2008)

Sixteen participants in total comprised the three separate focus groups with four artistseight local residents and four visitors A notable observation by the researchers was howquickly the participants collaborated on selecting photos and agreeing on photo captionsfor the public presentation on the final day This applied to all groups the artists and visitorswho did not know each other as well as the Boreen Point group who later commented onthe fact that previous differences did not prevent them from reaching consensus on the ideasthey wished to communicate There appeared to be a shared sense of the importance ofworking together for a ldquogreater goodrdquo the community and the future There was alsoeasy agreement about who would present to the public on the final day of the festival

Photos chosen by all groups illustrated commonalities with shared concerns about theenvironment and threat of climate change The value of place and being at the waterrsquos edgeand specifically the beauty and tranquillity of Boreen Point and the lake was anotherrecurring theme (Figures 3 and 4)

While common ground was revealed among all participants it was also clearly evidentthat there were differences between photos taken by locals and the other two groups Artiststended to take aesthetic photos and frequently chose the environmental art works as theirsubject matter In addition their captions often involved the use of written metaphorssuch as ldquoreeds as marker sticks of changerdquo (Figure 5) In contrast local residents paidless attention to providing aestheticised views and instead took photos of local issuesand local actions such as plastic litter (Figure 6) and residents at a working bee pullingout weeds Residentsrsquo perspectives were more grounded and frequently identified practicalsolutions thus revealing their local knowledge and experience in relation to this particularlocation These differing approaches were clearly communicated to those attending thepublic forum with all but three of the 23 respondents to the survey (over 85) noticing

Figure 2 Display on final day

642 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Figure 3 Our livelihood threatened ndash what are we going to eat

Figure 4 Will it be here when they grow up

Figure 5 Rising levels Reeds as marker sticks of change (artist)

Local Environment 643

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

differences in the three groupsrsquo perspectives These perceptions were supported with com-ments such as the following

The visitors had a broader perspective amp ldquoworld viewrdquo whereas the residents focused more onlocal effects of people and climate change

Artists were more image based visitors showed a diversity of views While residentsrsquo pic-tures conveyed a mood of appreciating what we have but also what might be good and bad

The artists were looking more at aesthetic representations of climate issues in contrast to theresidentsrsquo metaphors with everyday life I found the residentsrsquo representations most insightful

The expression of diverse perspectives facilitated by the photovoice process occurred onseveral levels The dialogue that emerged during focus groups as participants discussed theissues and put together their presentations was important for consensus-building withingroups and empowerment of the participants However we were also interested to discoverways in which communication extended beyond the individual groups by asking attendees atthe presentation to complete the questionnaire at the end of the talk Of the 23 survey respon-dents 9 did not participate in photovoice groups and could be considered a more ldquoobjectiverdquoaudience for the remainder it was the first time they had seen the other groupsrsquo photos

Additionally we surveyed which photos resonated most with or had the strongestimpact on observers at the final presentation The two most frequently selected photoswere not particularly aesthetic or subtle however they were strong direct and memorableimages Furthermore they communicate clear messages concerning action and a need tochange (Figures 7 and 8)

In commenting on the impact of the presentations only 56 of all survey respondentsconfirmed that the photovoice project raised their awareness of climate change However71 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project reinforced their views withseveral respondents commenting that they already had a high level of awareness ofclimate change Nevertheless there was evidence that the presentations had providedgreater clarity and an awareness of othersrsquo perspectives As one respondent remarked

Irsquom already a convinced activist ndash but this project has pinned down the issues on a local level

Figure 6 Who cares Chain reaction people fish birds (resident)

644 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Importantly 91 indicated that the presentations increased their understanding of othersrsquoviews and this was common to all participant groups In addition a high percentage773 felt that the Floating Land event affected their interest and awareness of climatechange revealing the value of diverse forms of communication in addressing climatechange issues

Figure 7 The end of the ldquogood yearsrdquo (visitor)

Figure 8 Are we still asleep Why do not we do something (resident)

Local Environment 645

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

The Floating Land Event is a wonderful opportunity to meet discuss and seek alternatives ndashwith fellow residents as well as visitors of all shades and cultures

been aware of these issues but meeting Tuvalu people and seeing photos of Tuvalu hashad a significant impact

The impact of the images and related captions in motivating participants was also evident as69 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project encouraged them to take actionwith comments including

I feel that personally and collectively there needs to be less talk and more action

Helped us decide to be more active in the cause

Of interest is that only three of the nine (33) non-photovoice group respondents indicatedthat the project influenced them to a large degree in their responses to questions aboutstimulating interest raising awareness shifting their views and encouraging them totake action in climate change While the sample is not large enough to draw substantiveconclusions it does suggest that participating directly in the photovoice experiencewould have greater impact than simply observing the output consistent with communitydevelopment literature (Ife and Tesoriero 2006)

In these ways the photovoice project gave voice to local people whose knowledge wasgrounded in the specific and juxtaposed these views with those of two groups who broughtin ldquooutsiderrdquo perspectives This facilitated an increased understanding of commonalitiesand differences generated consensus concerning climate change and was effective inencouraging many of the photovoice participants to take action (Figure 9)

Conclusionssignificance of the research

The ldquoat the waterrsquos edgerdquo photovoice project was found to be effective in expressing threedifferent groupsrsquo values about climate change It implemented the following

illustrated common ground among the three groups in terms of sense of place caringfor place and concern about climate change

Figure 9 The time for contemplation is over (visitor)

646 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

empowered individuals fostered expression and promoted understanding andawareness of differing perspectives among different groups and

motivated participants to take action about climate change (although whether they door not is not tested by this methodology)

These findings are inter-related in terms of prompting social action Reconciling differ-ences identifying common ground and building consensus are important precursors to col-laboration and collective action The critical reflection components of the photovoicemethodology that occur while taking photos during group interaction and during the pres-entation of photos contribute to a re-evaluation of onersquos experience and social learningVisual images engage the emotions (Mason 2004) and are a useful way to communicatedeeply held views (Wang et al 1998) The capacity of images to communicate in termsof metaphor and to convey multilayered meanings draw out feelings and emotions in exter-nal parties as well as in participants Furthermore Carlson et al (2006) claim that thephotovoice method contributes to social change because it challenges assumptionsembedded in cultural norms and elicits emotional engagement critical reflection cognitiveawakening and the intention to act Thus it can contribute to the ldquonew lsquolevels of con-sciousnessrsquo required to address the substantial lsquoproblemrsquo of climate changerdquo (Pettenger2007 p 3) We suggest that photovoice as a visualisation technique demonstrated that itcould contribute to building both ldquobondingrdquo and ldquobridgingrdquo social capital (Putnam2000) local participants indicated that they cooperated much more than usual (bonding)all participants indicated increased awareness of othersrsquo perspectives (bridging)

The outcomes also reflected the interplay between local and global issues and actionAll groups identified critical issues at a global scale for example the photo of sails onthe lake titled ldquoThe last fleet leaves Tuvalu after the Arctic ice sheet meltsrdquo They alsoidentified the need for collective action with a photo of a rainbow over the lake titledldquoAlways hope when people share ideasrdquo and another photo of footprints in the sand entitledldquoEveryone owns the waterrsquos edgerdquo It appeared though that it is easier to identify specificactions when they are associated with a ldquoplacerdquo as residents addressed the issues from aspecific and local perspective This was illustrated by an array of residentsrsquo photos whichincluded ldquocombating invasive weedsrdquo ldquopeople own the streets not carsrdquo and a dysfunc-tional stormwater drain By drawing out values as well as threats the project shiftedlocal participants from a sense of powerlessness in relation to climate change to a senseof hope and recognition that their collaborative actions were meaningful In additionsharing their personal constructs about climate change elicited a strong need to act nowamong participants Thus this research has broader implications as it advances understand-ings of perceptions and social constructions of climate change ndash an emerging and criticalarea of international research

As a case study of a specific regional event within the NBR this research contributes tothe Councilrsquos and NBRrsquos measurable identifiers of progress towards its and UNESCOrsquosMan and the Biosphere objectives ndash to ldquodemonstrate innovative approaches to conservationand sustainable developmentrdquo and to produce and disseminate research findings interna-tionally which ldquopromote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans andthe biosphererdquo (UNESCO 2002 p 198) Such events represent social learning environ-ments ldquoto experiment with and showcase various approachesrdquo to sustainability ldquothat are cul-turally relevant to local communitiesrdquo (UNESCO 2002) Moreover set within the context ofthe NBR governance arrangements with its partnering sector boards the engaging photo-voice project and Floating Land event contributed to building adaptive capacity andreinforced the essential role of local people This research makes explicit Biosphere

Local Environment 647

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

goals concerning environmental awareness and stewardship by eliciting and communicat-ing differing communitiesrsquo views about ldquobeingrdquo and living at the waterrsquos edge By placingthe outcomes on the internet we showcase the approach and offer the technique as one thatcould be applied elsewhere among even more disparate groups to address issues such assustainability climate change mitigation and adaptation To further fulfil the potential ofsuch methods to break unsustainable patterns and inspire transformation this projectcould be used as a basis for a council-wide or even global project whereby local groupsgenerate their own narratives about climate change issues opportunities and actionThese could then be presented to relevant decision-makers in their communities andcould contribute to a global website promoting climate action

Photovoice has often been used as part of longer term community development projectsand can be implemented in many different ways In this case the time constraints appearedto focus the participants on reaching a consensus on photo-selection captions and the pres-entation format quickly while still capturing all voices While it could be argued that theproject involved groups already interested in climate change issues the value that partici-pants placed on sharing and appreciating different viewpoints suggests that the process hasmerit in fostering understanding and collaborative action Ultimately the project illustrateda specific approach which was both enjoyable and engaging for future self-organising ofcommunity groups around complex issues It promoted dialogue and understanding ofothersrsquo perspectives and effectively fostered social capital as a basis for building commu-nity resilience during times of uncertainty

AcknowledgementsWe appreciate the time and effort of all the participants of the ldquoAt the Waterrsquos Edgerdquo photovoiceproject the support of organisers of the Floating Land event and University of the Sunshine Coastfor funding

ReferencesAbel N et al 1998 Mental models and communication in agriculture Canberra ACT Rural

Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No 98140Adger W et al 2005 Social-ecological resilience to coastal disasters Science 309 (5737)

1036ndash1039Baldwin C 2008 Integrating values and interest in water planning using a consensus-building

approach Thesis (PhD) The University of QueenslandBaldwin C and Bycroft P 2009 Governance options for maintaining values in times of change In

Proceedings people and the sea V ldquoliving with uncertainty and adapting to changerdquoAmsterdam The Netherlands Centre for Maritime Research (MARE) 1ndash31

Ballinger C 2006 Preface In K Wilson ed Creative territories site specific art as communionTewantin QLD Noosa Council 3ndash4

Bressers H and Kuks S 2003 What does ldquogovernancerdquo means From conception to elaboration InH Bressers and W Rosenbaum eds Achieving sustainable development the challenge ofgovernance across social scales Westport CT Praeger 65ndash88

Carlson E Engebretson J and Chamberlain R 2006 Photovoice as a social process of criticalconsciousness Qualitative Health Research 16 (6) 836ndash852

Cheong S 2008 Controlling the coast Ocean and Coastal Management 51 (5) 391ndash396Cornelius H 1998 The gentle revolution summary Chatswood NSW Simon and SchusterDinsdale E and Fenton M 2006 Assessing coral reef condition eliciting community meanings

Society and Natural Resources 19 (3) 239ndash258Floating Land 2009 Photovoice research project [online] Available from httpwwwfloatingland

comau [Accessed 12 December 2009]Harding R ed 1998 Environmental decision-making Annandale NSW The Federation Press

648 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

(a) Stimulated your curiosity or interest to find out more about climate change(b) Raised your awareness about climate change issues(c) Improved your understanding of othersrsquo perspectives about climate change(d) Reinforced your existing views about climate change(e) Shifted your views about climate change(f) Encouraged you to take action about climate change

Participants were also asked open-ended questions For example ldquoidentify upto 3 photos that affected you or resonated most with you Give the numberfrom the display or describerdquo

(6) The images were displayed on the web after the event with an opportunity forpublic input and response (Floating Land 2009)

On a practical level sound preparation and organisation were essential to implementthe technique at a time-constrained event The project was advertised early as part of theFloating Land festival and participants needed to have digital cameras and be availablefor both a briefing at the commencement of the project and for a focus group towardsthe end Computers portable printers and a digital projector were available in a marqueetent as were display boards for displaying hard copies of the photos Facilitators ofthe focus groups were experienced and managed each group process in less than 90 minA technician was available to place the photos in the order requested for the grouppresentations

Outcomesanalysis

We were specifically interested in observing whether there were commonalities or differ-ences in the constructs expressed by the three different groups concerning values andthreats associated with being at the waterrsquos edge in times of climate change In particularwe were interested in whether local perspectives differed from those of the other twogroups ndash artists and visitors ndash who did not reside at this specific place We alsosought to understand the influence of the photovoice project on both participantsrsquo and

Figure 1 Focus group with Boreen Point residents

Local Environment 641

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

non-participantsrsquo awareness understanding of othersrsquo perspectives and desire to takeaction on climate change While the literature demonstrates the empowering qualitiesof photovoice for participants (Wang et al 1998) the potential for a photovoice presen-tation to influence observers or the audience is an identified gap in the research (Baldwin2008)

Sixteen participants in total comprised the three separate focus groups with four artistseight local residents and four visitors A notable observation by the researchers was howquickly the participants collaborated on selecting photos and agreeing on photo captionsfor the public presentation on the final day This applied to all groups the artists and visitorswho did not know each other as well as the Boreen Point group who later commented onthe fact that previous differences did not prevent them from reaching consensus on the ideasthey wished to communicate There appeared to be a shared sense of the importance ofworking together for a ldquogreater goodrdquo the community and the future There was alsoeasy agreement about who would present to the public on the final day of the festival

Photos chosen by all groups illustrated commonalities with shared concerns about theenvironment and threat of climate change The value of place and being at the waterrsquos edgeand specifically the beauty and tranquillity of Boreen Point and the lake was anotherrecurring theme (Figures 3 and 4)

While common ground was revealed among all participants it was also clearly evidentthat there were differences between photos taken by locals and the other two groups Artiststended to take aesthetic photos and frequently chose the environmental art works as theirsubject matter In addition their captions often involved the use of written metaphorssuch as ldquoreeds as marker sticks of changerdquo (Figure 5) In contrast local residents paidless attention to providing aestheticised views and instead took photos of local issuesand local actions such as plastic litter (Figure 6) and residents at a working bee pullingout weeds Residentsrsquo perspectives were more grounded and frequently identified practicalsolutions thus revealing their local knowledge and experience in relation to this particularlocation These differing approaches were clearly communicated to those attending thepublic forum with all but three of the 23 respondents to the survey (over 85) noticing

Figure 2 Display on final day

642 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Figure 3 Our livelihood threatened ndash what are we going to eat

Figure 4 Will it be here when they grow up

Figure 5 Rising levels Reeds as marker sticks of change (artist)

Local Environment 643

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

differences in the three groupsrsquo perspectives These perceptions were supported with com-ments such as the following

The visitors had a broader perspective amp ldquoworld viewrdquo whereas the residents focused more onlocal effects of people and climate change

Artists were more image based visitors showed a diversity of views While residentsrsquo pic-tures conveyed a mood of appreciating what we have but also what might be good and bad

The artists were looking more at aesthetic representations of climate issues in contrast to theresidentsrsquo metaphors with everyday life I found the residentsrsquo representations most insightful

The expression of diverse perspectives facilitated by the photovoice process occurred onseveral levels The dialogue that emerged during focus groups as participants discussed theissues and put together their presentations was important for consensus-building withingroups and empowerment of the participants However we were also interested to discoverways in which communication extended beyond the individual groups by asking attendees atthe presentation to complete the questionnaire at the end of the talk Of the 23 survey respon-dents 9 did not participate in photovoice groups and could be considered a more ldquoobjectiverdquoaudience for the remainder it was the first time they had seen the other groupsrsquo photos

Additionally we surveyed which photos resonated most with or had the strongestimpact on observers at the final presentation The two most frequently selected photoswere not particularly aesthetic or subtle however they were strong direct and memorableimages Furthermore they communicate clear messages concerning action and a need tochange (Figures 7 and 8)

In commenting on the impact of the presentations only 56 of all survey respondentsconfirmed that the photovoice project raised their awareness of climate change However71 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project reinforced their views withseveral respondents commenting that they already had a high level of awareness ofclimate change Nevertheless there was evidence that the presentations had providedgreater clarity and an awareness of othersrsquo perspectives As one respondent remarked

Irsquom already a convinced activist ndash but this project has pinned down the issues on a local level

Figure 6 Who cares Chain reaction people fish birds (resident)

644 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Importantly 91 indicated that the presentations increased their understanding of othersrsquoviews and this was common to all participant groups In addition a high percentage773 felt that the Floating Land event affected their interest and awareness of climatechange revealing the value of diverse forms of communication in addressing climatechange issues

Figure 7 The end of the ldquogood yearsrdquo (visitor)

Figure 8 Are we still asleep Why do not we do something (resident)

Local Environment 645

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

The Floating Land Event is a wonderful opportunity to meet discuss and seek alternatives ndashwith fellow residents as well as visitors of all shades and cultures

been aware of these issues but meeting Tuvalu people and seeing photos of Tuvalu hashad a significant impact

The impact of the images and related captions in motivating participants was also evident as69 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project encouraged them to take actionwith comments including

I feel that personally and collectively there needs to be less talk and more action

Helped us decide to be more active in the cause

Of interest is that only three of the nine (33) non-photovoice group respondents indicatedthat the project influenced them to a large degree in their responses to questions aboutstimulating interest raising awareness shifting their views and encouraging them totake action in climate change While the sample is not large enough to draw substantiveconclusions it does suggest that participating directly in the photovoice experiencewould have greater impact than simply observing the output consistent with communitydevelopment literature (Ife and Tesoriero 2006)

In these ways the photovoice project gave voice to local people whose knowledge wasgrounded in the specific and juxtaposed these views with those of two groups who broughtin ldquooutsiderrdquo perspectives This facilitated an increased understanding of commonalitiesand differences generated consensus concerning climate change and was effective inencouraging many of the photovoice participants to take action (Figure 9)

Conclusionssignificance of the research

The ldquoat the waterrsquos edgerdquo photovoice project was found to be effective in expressing threedifferent groupsrsquo values about climate change It implemented the following

illustrated common ground among the three groups in terms of sense of place caringfor place and concern about climate change

Figure 9 The time for contemplation is over (visitor)

646 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

empowered individuals fostered expression and promoted understanding andawareness of differing perspectives among different groups and

motivated participants to take action about climate change (although whether they door not is not tested by this methodology)

These findings are inter-related in terms of prompting social action Reconciling differ-ences identifying common ground and building consensus are important precursors to col-laboration and collective action The critical reflection components of the photovoicemethodology that occur while taking photos during group interaction and during the pres-entation of photos contribute to a re-evaluation of onersquos experience and social learningVisual images engage the emotions (Mason 2004) and are a useful way to communicatedeeply held views (Wang et al 1998) The capacity of images to communicate in termsof metaphor and to convey multilayered meanings draw out feelings and emotions in exter-nal parties as well as in participants Furthermore Carlson et al (2006) claim that thephotovoice method contributes to social change because it challenges assumptionsembedded in cultural norms and elicits emotional engagement critical reflection cognitiveawakening and the intention to act Thus it can contribute to the ldquonew lsquolevels of con-sciousnessrsquo required to address the substantial lsquoproblemrsquo of climate changerdquo (Pettenger2007 p 3) We suggest that photovoice as a visualisation technique demonstrated that itcould contribute to building both ldquobondingrdquo and ldquobridgingrdquo social capital (Putnam2000) local participants indicated that they cooperated much more than usual (bonding)all participants indicated increased awareness of othersrsquo perspectives (bridging)

The outcomes also reflected the interplay between local and global issues and actionAll groups identified critical issues at a global scale for example the photo of sails onthe lake titled ldquoThe last fleet leaves Tuvalu after the Arctic ice sheet meltsrdquo They alsoidentified the need for collective action with a photo of a rainbow over the lake titledldquoAlways hope when people share ideasrdquo and another photo of footprints in the sand entitledldquoEveryone owns the waterrsquos edgerdquo It appeared though that it is easier to identify specificactions when they are associated with a ldquoplacerdquo as residents addressed the issues from aspecific and local perspective This was illustrated by an array of residentsrsquo photos whichincluded ldquocombating invasive weedsrdquo ldquopeople own the streets not carsrdquo and a dysfunc-tional stormwater drain By drawing out values as well as threats the project shiftedlocal participants from a sense of powerlessness in relation to climate change to a senseof hope and recognition that their collaborative actions were meaningful In additionsharing their personal constructs about climate change elicited a strong need to act nowamong participants Thus this research has broader implications as it advances understand-ings of perceptions and social constructions of climate change ndash an emerging and criticalarea of international research

As a case study of a specific regional event within the NBR this research contributes tothe Councilrsquos and NBRrsquos measurable identifiers of progress towards its and UNESCOrsquosMan and the Biosphere objectives ndash to ldquodemonstrate innovative approaches to conservationand sustainable developmentrdquo and to produce and disseminate research findings interna-tionally which ldquopromote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans andthe biosphererdquo (UNESCO 2002 p 198) Such events represent social learning environ-ments ldquoto experiment with and showcase various approachesrdquo to sustainability ldquothat are cul-turally relevant to local communitiesrdquo (UNESCO 2002) Moreover set within the context ofthe NBR governance arrangements with its partnering sector boards the engaging photo-voice project and Floating Land event contributed to building adaptive capacity andreinforced the essential role of local people This research makes explicit Biosphere

Local Environment 647

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

goals concerning environmental awareness and stewardship by eliciting and communicat-ing differing communitiesrsquo views about ldquobeingrdquo and living at the waterrsquos edge By placingthe outcomes on the internet we showcase the approach and offer the technique as one thatcould be applied elsewhere among even more disparate groups to address issues such assustainability climate change mitigation and adaptation To further fulfil the potential ofsuch methods to break unsustainable patterns and inspire transformation this projectcould be used as a basis for a council-wide or even global project whereby local groupsgenerate their own narratives about climate change issues opportunities and actionThese could then be presented to relevant decision-makers in their communities andcould contribute to a global website promoting climate action

Photovoice has often been used as part of longer term community development projectsand can be implemented in many different ways In this case the time constraints appearedto focus the participants on reaching a consensus on photo-selection captions and the pres-entation format quickly while still capturing all voices While it could be argued that theproject involved groups already interested in climate change issues the value that partici-pants placed on sharing and appreciating different viewpoints suggests that the process hasmerit in fostering understanding and collaborative action Ultimately the project illustrateda specific approach which was both enjoyable and engaging for future self-organising ofcommunity groups around complex issues It promoted dialogue and understanding ofothersrsquo perspectives and effectively fostered social capital as a basis for building commu-nity resilience during times of uncertainty

AcknowledgementsWe appreciate the time and effort of all the participants of the ldquoAt the Waterrsquos Edgerdquo photovoiceproject the support of organisers of the Floating Land event and University of the Sunshine Coastfor funding

ReferencesAbel N et al 1998 Mental models and communication in agriculture Canberra ACT Rural

Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No 98140Adger W et al 2005 Social-ecological resilience to coastal disasters Science 309 (5737)

1036ndash1039Baldwin C 2008 Integrating values and interest in water planning using a consensus-building

approach Thesis (PhD) The University of QueenslandBaldwin C and Bycroft P 2009 Governance options for maintaining values in times of change In

Proceedings people and the sea V ldquoliving with uncertainty and adapting to changerdquoAmsterdam The Netherlands Centre for Maritime Research (MARE) 1ndash31

Ballinger C 2006 Preface In K Wilson ed Creative territories site specific art as communionTewantin QLD Noosa Council 3ndash4

Bressers H and Kuks S 2003 What does ldquogovernancerdquo means From conception to elaboration InH Bressers and W Rosenbaum eds Achieving sustainable development the challenge ofgovernance across social scales Westport CT Praeger 65ndash88

Carlson E Engebretson J and Chamberlain R 2006 Photovoice as a social process of criticalconsciousness Qualitative Health Research 16 (6) 836ndash852

Cheong S 2008 Controlling the coast Ocean and Coastal Management 51 (5) 391ndash396Cornelius H 1998 The gentle revolution summary Chatswood NSW Simon and SchusterDinsdale E and Fenton M 2006 Assessing coral reef condition eliciting community meanings

Society and Natural Resources 19 (3) 239ndash258Floating Land 2009 Photovoice research project [online] Available from httpwwwfloatingland

comau [Accessed 12 December 2009]Harding R ed 1998 Environmental decision-making Annandale NSW The Federation Press

648 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

non-participantsrsquo awareness understanding of othersrsquo perspectives and desire to takeaction on climate change While the literature demonstrates the empowering qualitiesof photovoice for participants (Wang et al 1998) the potential for a photovoice presen-tation to influence observers or the audience is an identified gap in the research (Baldwin2008)

Sixteen participants in total comprised the three separate focus groups with four artistseight local residents and four visitors A notable observation by the researchers was howquickly the participants collaborated on selecting photos and agreeing on photo captionsfor the public presentation on the final day This applied to all groups the artists and visitorswho did not know each other as well as the Boreen Point group who later commented onthe fact that previous differences did not prevent them from reaching consensus on the ideasthey wished to communicate There appeared to be a shared sense of the importance ofworking together for a ldquogreater goodrdquo the community and the future There was alsoeasy agreement about who would present to the public on the final day of the festival

Photos chosen by all groups illustrated commonalities with shared concerns about theenvironment and threat of climate change The value of place and being at the waterrsquos edgeand specifically the beauty and tranquillity of Boreen Point and the lake was anotherrecurring theme (Figures 3 and 4)

While common ground was revealed among all participants it was also clearly evidentthat there were differences between photos taken by locals and the other two groups Artiststended to take aesthetic photos and frequently chose the environmental art works as theirsubject matter In addition their captions often involved the use of written metaphorssuch as ldquoreeds as marker sticks of changerdquo (Figure 5) In contrast local residents paidless attention to providing aestheticised views and instead took photos of local issuesand local actions such as plastic litter (Figure 6) and residents at a working bee pullingout weeds Residentsrsquo perspectives were more grounded and frequently identified practicalsolutions thus revealing their local knowledge and experience in relation to this particularlocation These differing approaches were clearly communicated to those attending thepublic forum with all but three of the 23 respondents to the survey (over 85) noticing

Figure 2 Display on final day

642 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Figure 3 Our livelihood threatened ndash what are we going to eat

Figure 4 Will it be here when they grow up

Figure 5 Rising levels Reeds as marker sticks of change (artist)

Local Environment 643

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

differences in the three groupsrsquo perspectives These perceptions were supported with com-ments such as the following

The visitors had a broader perspective amp ldquoworld viewrdquo whereas the residents focused more onlocal effects of people and climate change

Artists were more image based visitors showed a diversity of views While residentsrsquo pic-tures conveyed a mood of appreciating what we have but also what might be good and bad

The artists were looking more at aesthetic representations of climate issues in contrast to theresidentsrsquo metaphors with everyday life I found the residentsrsquo representations most insightful

The expression of diverse perspectives facilitated by the photovoice process occurred onseveral levels The dialogue that emerged during focus groups as participants discussed theissues and put together their presentations was important for consensus-building withingroups and empowerment of the participants However we were also interested to discoverways in which communication extended beyond the individual groups by asking attendees atthe presentation to complete the questionnaire at the end of the talk Of the 23 survey respon-dents 9 did not participate in photovoice groups and could be considered a more ldquoobjectiverdquoaudience for the remainder it was the first time they had seen the other groupsrsquo photos

Additionally we surveyed which photos resonated most with or had the strongestimpact on observers at the final presentation The two most frequently selected photoswere not particularly aesthetic or subtle however they were strong direct and memorableimages Furthermore they communicate clear messages concerning action and a need tochange (Figures 7 and 8)

In commenting on the impact of the presentations only 56 of all survey respondentsconfirmed that the photovoice project raised their awareness of climate change However71 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project reinforced their views withseveral respondents commenting that they already had a high level of awareness ofclimate change Nevertheless there was evidence that the presentations had providedgreater clarity and an awareness of othersrsquo perspectives As one respondent remarked

Irsquom already a convinced activist ndash but this project has pinned down the issues on a local level

Figure 6 Who cares Chain reaction people fish birds (resident)

644 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Importantly 91 indicated that the presentations increased their understanding of othersrsquoviews and this was common to all participant groups In addition a high percentage773 felt that the Floating Land event affected their interest and awareness of climatechange revealing the value of diverse forms of communication in addressing climatechange issues

Figure 7 The end of the ldquogood yearsrdquo (visitor)

Figure 8 Are we still asleep Why do not we do something (resident)

Local Environment 645

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

The Floating Land Event is a wonderful opportunity to meet discuss and seek alternatives ndashwith fellow residents as well as visitors of all shades and cultures

been aware of these issues but meeting Tuvalu people and seeing photos of Tuvalu hashad a significant impact

The impact of the images and related captions in motivating participants was also evident as69 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project encouraged them to take actionwith comments including

I feel that personally and collectively there needs to be less talk and more action

Helped us decide to be more active in the cause

Of interest is that only three of the nine (33) non-photovoice group respondents indicatedthat the project influenced them to a large degree in their responses to questions aboutstimulating interest raising awareness shifting their views and encouraging them totake action in climate change While the sample is not large enough to draw substantiveconclusions it does suggest that participating directly in the photovoice experiencewould have greater impact than simply observing the output consistent with communitydevelopment literature (Ife and Tesoriero 2006)

In these ways the photovoice project gave voice to local people whose knowledge wasgrounded in the specific and juxtaposed these views with those of two groups who broughtin ldquooutsiderrdquo perspectives This facilitated an increased understanding of commonalitiesand differences generated consensus concerning climate change and was effective inencouraging many of the photovoice participants to take action (Figure 9)

Conclusionssignificance of the research

The ldquoat the waterrsquos edgerdquo photovoice project was found to be effective in expressing threedifferent groupsrsquo values about climate change It implemented the following

illustrated common ground among the three groups in terms of sense of place caringfor place and concern about climate change

Figure 9 The time for contemplation is over (visitor)

646 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

empowered individuals fostered expression and promoted understanding andawareness of differing perspectives among different groups and

motivated participants to take action about climate change (although whether they door not is not tested by this methodology)

These findings are inter-related in terms of prompting social action Reconciling differ-ences identifying common ground and building consensus are important precursors to col-laboration and collective action The critical reflection components of the photovoicemethodology that occur while taking photos during group interaction and during the pres-entation of photos contribute to a re-evaluation of onersquos experience and social learningVisual images engage the emotions (Mason 2004) and are a useful way to communicatedeeply held views (Wang et al 1998) The capacity of images to communicate in termsof metaphor and to convey multilayered meanings draw out feelings and emotions in exter-nal parties as well as in participants Furthermore Carlson et al (2006) claim that thephotovoice method contributes to social change because it challenges assumptionsembedded in cultural norms and elicits emotional engagement critical reflection cognitiveawakening and the intention to act Thus it can contribute to the ldquonew lsquolevels of con-sciousnessrsquo required to address the substantial lsquoproblemrsquo of climate changerdquo (Pettenger2007 p 3) We suggest that photovoice as a visualisation technique demonstrated that itcould contribute to building both ldquobondingrdquo and ldquobridgingrdquo social capital (Putnam2000) local participants indicated that they cooperated much more than usual (bonding)all participants indicated increased awareness of othersrsquo perspectives (bridging)

The outcomes also reflected the interplay between local and global issues and actionAll groups identified critical issues at a global scale for example the photo of sails onthe lake titled ldquoThe last fleet leaves Tuvalu after the Arctic ice sheet meltsrdquo They alsoidentified the need for collective action with a photo of a rainbow over the lake titledldquoAlways hope when people share ideasrdquo and another photo of footprints in the sand entitledldquoEveryone owns the waterrsquos edgerdquo It appeared though that it is easier to identify specificactions when they are associated with a ldquoplacerdquo as residents addressed the issues from aspecific and local perspective This was illustrated by an array of residentsrsquo photos whichincluded ldquocombating invasive weedsrdquo ldquopeople own the streets not carsrdquo and a dysfunc-tional stormwater drain By drawing out values as well as threats the project shiftedlocal participants from a sense of powerlessness in relation to climate change to a senseof hope and recognition that their collaborative actions were meaningful In additionsharing their personal constructs about climate change elicited a strong need to act nowamong participants Thus this research has broader implications as it advances understand-ings of perceptions and social constructions of climate change ndash an emerging and criticalarea of international research

As a case study of a specific regional event within the NBR this research contributes tothe Councilrsquos and NBRrsquos measurable identifiers of progress towards its and UNESCOrsquosMan and the Biosphere objectives ndash to ldquodemonstrate innovative approaches to conservationand sustainable developmentrdquo and to produce and disseminate research findings interna-tionally which ldquopromote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans andthe biosphererdquo (UNESCO 2002 p 198) Such events represent social learning environ-ments ldquoto experiment with and showcase various approachesrdquo to sustainability ldquothat are cul-turally relevant to local communitiesrdquo (UNESCO 2002) Moreover set within the context ofthe NBR governance arrangements with its partnering sector boards the engaging photo-voice project and Floating Land event contributed to building adaptive capacity andreinforced the essential role of local people This research makes explicit Biosphere

Local Environment 647

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

goals concerning environmental awareness and stewardship by eliciting and communicat-ing differing communitiesrsquo views about ldquobeingrdquo and living at the waterrsquos edge By placingthe outcomes on the internet we showcase the approach and offer the technique as one thatcould be applied elsewhere among even more disparate groups to address issues such assustainability climate change mitigation and adaptation To further fulfil the potential ofsuch methods to break unsustainable patterns and inspire transformation this projectcould be used as a basis for a council-wide or even global project whereby local groupsgenerate their own narratives about climate change issues opportunities and actionThese could then be presented to relevant decision-makers in their communities andcould contribute to a global website promoting climate action

Photovoice has often been used as part of longer term community development projectsand can be implemented in many different ways In this case the time constraints appearedto focus the participants on reaching a consensus on photo-selection captions and the pres-entation format quickly while still capturing all voices While it could be argued that theproject involved groups already interested in climate change issues the value that partici-pants placed on sharing and appreciating different viewpoints suggests that the process hasmerit in fostering understanding and collaborative action Ultimately the project illustrateda specific approach which was both enjoyable and engaging for future self-organising ofcommunity groups around complex issues It promoted dialogue and understanding ofothersrsquo perspectives and effectively fostered social capital as a basis for building commu-nity resilience during times of uncertainty

AcknowledgementsWe appreciate the time and effort of all the participants of the ldquoAt the Waterrsquos Edgerdquo photovoiceproject the support of organisers of the Floating Land event and University of the Sunshine Coastfor funding

ReferencesAbel N et al 1998 Mental models and communication in agriculture Canberra ACT Rural

Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No 98140Adger W et al 2005 Social-ecological resilience to coastal disasters Science 309 (5737)

1036ndash1039Baldwin C 2008 Integrating values and interest in water planning using a consensus-building

approach Thesis (PhD) The University of QueenslandBaldwin C and Bycroft P 2009 Governance options for maintaining values in times of change In

Proceedings people and the sea V ldquoliving with uncertainty and adapting to changerdquoAmsterdam The Netherlands Centre for Maritime Research (MARE) 1ndash31

Ballinger C 2006 Preface In K Wilson ed Creative territories site specific art as communionTewantin QLD Noosa Council 3ndash4

Bressers H and Kuks S 2003 What does ldquogovernancerdquo means From conception to elaboration InH Bressers and W Rosenbaum eds Achieving sustainable development the challenge ofgovernance across social scales Westport CT Praeger 65ndash88

Carlson E Engebretson J and Chamberlain R 2006 Photovoice as a social process of criticalconsciousness Qualitative Health Research 16 (6) 836ndash852

Cheong S 2008 Controlling the coast Ocean and Coastal Management 51 (5) 391ndash396Cornelius H 1998 The gentle revolution summary Chatswood NSW Simon and SchusterDinsdale E and Fenton M 2006 Assessing coral reef condition eliciting community meanings

Society and Natural Resources 19 (3) 239ndash258Floating Land 2009 Photovoice research project [online] Available from httpwwwfloatingland

comau [Accessed 12 December 2009]Harding R ed 1998 Environmental decision-making Annandale NSW The Federation Press

648 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Figure 3 Our livelihood threatened ndash what are we going to eat

Figure 4 Will it be here when they grow up

Figure 5 Rising levels Reeds as marker sticks of change (artist)

Local Environment 643

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

differences in the three groupsrsquo perspectives These perceptions were supported with com-ments such as the following

The visitors had a broader perspective amp ldquoworld viewrdquo whereas the residents focused more onlocal effects of people and climate change

Artists were more image based visitors showed a diversity of views While residentsrsquo pic-tures conveyed a mood of appreciating what we have but also what might be good and bad

The artists were looking more at aesthetic representations of climate issues in contrast to theresidentsrsquo metaphors with everyday life I found the residentsrsquo representations most insightful

The expression of diverse perspectives facilitated by the photovoice process occurred onseveral levels The dialogue that emerged during focus groups as participants discussed theissues and put together their presentations was important for consensus-building withingroups and empowerment of the participants However we were also interested to discoverways in which communication extended beyond the individual groups by asking attendees atthe presentation to complete the questionnaire at the end of the talk Of the 23 survey respon-dents 9 did not participate in photovoice groups and could be considered a more ldquoobjectiverdquoaudience for the remainder it was the first time they had seen the other groupsrsquo photos

Additionally we surveyed which photos resonated most with or had the strongestimpact on observers at the final presentation The two most frequently selected photoswere not particularly aesthetic or subtle however they were strong direct and memorableimages Furthermore they communicate clear messages concerning action and a need tochange (Figures 7 and 8)

In commenting on the impact of the presentations only 56 of all survey respondentsconfirmed that the photovoice project raised their awareness of climate change However71 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project reinforced their views withseveral respondents commenting that they already had a high level of awareness ofclimate change Nevertheless there was evidence that the presentations had providedgreater clarity and an awareness of othersrsquo perspectives As one respondent remarked

Irsquom already a convinced activist ndash but this project has pinned down the issues on a local level

Figure 6 Who cares Chain reaction people fish birds (resident)

644 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Importantly 91 indicated that the presentations increased their understanding of othersrsquoviews and this was common to all participant groups In addition a high percentage773 felt that the Floating Land event affected their interest and awareness of climatechange revealing the value of diverse forms of communication in addressing climatechange issues

Figure 7 The end of the ldquogood yearsrdquo (visitor)

Figure 8 Are we still asleep Why do not we do something (resident)

Local Environment 645

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

The Floating Land Event is a wonderful opportunity to meet discuss and seek alternatives ndashwith fellow residents as well as visitors of all shades and cultures

been aware of these issues but meeting Tuvalu people and seeing photos of Tuvalu hashad a significant impact

The impact of the images and related captions in motivating participants was also evident as69 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project encouraged them to take actionwith comments including

I feel that personally and collectively there needs to be less talk and more action

Helped us decide to be more active in the cause

Of interest is that only three of the nine (33) non-photovoice group respondents indicatedthat the project influenced them to a large degree in their responses to questions aboutstimulating interest raising awareness shifting their views and encouraging them totake action in climate change While the sample is not large enough to draw substantiveconclusions it does suggest that participating directly in the photovoice experiencewould have greater impact than simply observing the output consistent with communitydevelopment literature (Ife and Tesoriero 2006)

In these ways the photovoice project gave voice to local people whose knowledge wasgrounded in the specific and juxtaposed these views with those of two groups who broughtin ldquooutsiderrdquo perspectives This facilitated an increased understanding of commonalitiesand differences generated consensus concerning climate change and was effective inencouraging many of the photovoice participants to take action (Figure 9)

Conclusionssignificance of the research

The ldquoat the waterrsquos edgerdquo photovoice project was found to be effective in expressing threedifferent groupsrsquo values about climate change It implemented the following

illustrated common ground among the three groups in terms of sense of place caringfor place and concern about climate change

Figure 9 The time for contemplation is over (visitor)

646 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

empowered individuals fostered expression and promoted understanding andawareness of differing perspectives among different groups and

motivated participants to take action about climate change (although whether they door not is not tested by this methodology)

These findings are inter-related in terms of prompting social action Reconciling differ-ences identifying common ground and building consensus are important precursors to col-laboration and collective action The critical reflection components of the photovoicemethodology that occur while taking photos during group interaction and during the pres-entation of photos contribute to a re-evaluation of onersquos experience and social learningVisual images engage the emotions (Mason 2004) and are a useful way to communicatedeeply held views (Wang et al 1998) The capacity of images to communicate in termsof metaphor and to convey multilayered meanings draw out feelings and emotions in exter-nal parties as well as in participants Furthermore Carlson et al (2006) claim that thephotovoice method contributes to social change because it challenges assumptionsembedded in cultural norms and elicits emotional engagement critical reflection cognitiveawakening and the intention to act Thus it can contribute to the ldquonew lsquolevels of con-sciousnessrsquo required to address the substantial lsquoproblemrsquo of climate changerdquo (Pettenger2007 p 3) We suggest that photovoice as a visualisation technique demonstrated that itcould contribute to building both ldquobondingrdquo and ldquobridgingrdquo social capital (Putnam2000) local participants indicated that they cooperated much more than usual (bonding)all participants indicated increased awareness of othersrsquo perspectives (bridging)

The outcomes also reflected the interplay between local and global issues and actionAll groups identified critical issues at a global scale for example the photo of sails onthe lake titled ldquoThe last fleet leaves Tuvalu after the Arctic ice sheet meltsrdquo They alsoidentified the need for collective action with a photo of a rainbow over the lake titledldquoAlways hope when people share ideasrdquo and another photo of footprints in the sand entitledldquoEveryone owns the waterrsquos edgerdquo It appeared though that it is easier to identify specificactions when they are associated with a ldquoplacerdquo as residents addressed the issues from aspecific and local perspective This was illustrated by an array of residentsrsquo photos whichincluded ldquocombating invasive weedsrdquo ldquopeople own the streets not carsrdquo and a dysfunc-tional stormwater drain By drawing out values as well as threats the project shiftedlocal participants from a sense of powerlessness in relation to climate change to a senseof hope and recognition that their collaborative actions were meaningful In additionsharing their personal constructs about climate change elicited a strong need to act nowamong participants Thus this research has broader implications as it advances understand-ings of perceptions and social constructions of climate change ndash an emerging and criticalarea of international research

As a case study of a specific regional event within the NBR this research contributes tothe Councilrsquos and NBRrsquos measurable identifiers of progress towards its and UNESCOrsquosMan and the Biosphere objectives ndash to ldquodemonstrate innovative approaches to conservationand sustainable developmentrdquo and to produce and disseminate research findings interna-tionally which ldquopromote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans andthe biosphererdquo (UNESCO 2002 p 198) Such events represent social learning environ-ments ldquoto experiment with and showcase various approachesrdquo to sustainability ldquothat are cul-turally relevant to local communitiesrdquo (UNESCO 2002) Moreover set within the context ofthe NBR governance arrangements with its partnering sector boards the engaging photo-voice project and Floating Land event contributed to building adaptive capacity andreinforced the essential role of local people This research makes explicit Biosphere

Local Environment 647

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

goals concerning environmental awareness and stewardship by eliciting and communicat-ing differing communitiesrsquo views about ldquobeingrdquo and living at the waterrsquos edge By placingthe outcomes on the internet we showcase the approach and offer the technique as one thatcould be applied elsewhere among even more disparate groups to address issues such assustainability climate change mitigation and adaptation To further fulfil the potential ofsuch methods to break unsustainable patterns and inspire transformation this projectcould be used as a basis for a council-wide or even global project whereby local groupsgenerate their own narratives about climate change issues opportunities and actionThese could then be presented to relevant decision-makers in their communities andcould contribute to a global website promoting climate action

Photovoice has often been used as part of longer term community development projectsand can be implemented in many different ways In this case the time constraints appearedto focus the participants on reaching a consensus on photo-selection captions and the pres-entation format quickly while still capturing all voices While it could be argued that theproject involved groups already interested in climate change issues the value that partici-pants placed on sharing and appreciating different viewpoints suggests that the process hasmerit in fostering understanding and collaborative action Ultimately the project illustrateda specific approach which was both enjoyable and engaging for future self-organising ofcommunity groups around complex issues It promoted dialogue and understanding ofothersrsquo perspectives and effectively fostered social capital as a basis for building commu-nity resilience during times of uncertainty

AcknowledgementsWe appreciate the time and effort of all the participants of the ldquoAt the Waterrsquos Edgerdquo photovoiceproject the support of organisers of the Floating Land event and University of the Sunshine Coastfor funding

ReferencesAbel N et al 1998 Mental models and communication in agriculture Canberra ACT Rural

Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No 98140Adger W et al 2005 Social-ecological resilience to coastal disasters Science 309 (5737)

1036ndash1039Baldwin C 2008 Integrating values and interest in water planning using a consensus-building

approach Thesis (PhD) The University of QueenslandBaldwin C and Bycroft P 2009 Governance options for maintaining values in times of change In

Proceedings people and the sea V ldquoliving with uncertainty and adapting to changerdquoAmsterdam The Netherlands Centre for Maritime Research (MARE) 1ndash31

Ballinger C 2006 Preface In K Wilson ed Creative territories site specific art as communionTewantin QLD Noosa Council 3ndash4

Bressers H and Kuks S 2003 What does ldquogovernancerdquo means From conception to elaboration InH Bressers and W Rosenbaum eds Achieving sustainable development the challenge ofgovernance across social scales Westport CT Praeger 65ndash88

Carlson E Engebretson J and Chamberlain R 2006 Photovoice as a social process of criticalconsciousness Qualitative Health Research 16 (6) 836ndash852

Cheong S 2008 Controlling the coast Ocean and Coastal Management 51 (5) 391ndash396Cornelius H 1998 The gentle revolution summary Chatswood NSW Simon and SchusterDinsdale E and Fenton M 2006 Assessing coral reef condition eliciting community meanings

Society and Natural Resources 19 (3) 239ndash258Floating Land 2009 Photovoice research project [online] Available from httpwwwfloatingland

comau [Accessed 12 December 2009]Harding R ed 1998 Environmental decision-making Annandale NSW The Federation Press

648 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

differences in the three groupsrsquo perspectives These perceptions were supported with com-ments such as the following

The visitors had a broader perspective amp ldquoworld viewrdquo whereas the residents focused more onlocal effects of people and climate change

Artists were more image based visitors showed a diversity of views While residentsrsquo pic-tures conveyed a mood of appreciating what we have but also what might be good and bad

The artists were looking more at aesthetic representations of climate issues in contrast to theresidentsrsquo metaphors with everyday life I found the residentsrsquo representations most insightful

The expression of diverse perspectives facilitated by the photovoice process occurred onseveral levels The dialogue that emerged during focus groups as participants discussed theissues and put together their presentations was important for consensus-building withingroups and empowerment of the participants However we were also interested to discoverways in which communication extended beyond the individual groups by asking attendees atthe presentation to complete the questionnaire at the end of the talk Of the 23 survey respon-dents 9 did not participate in photovoice groups and could be considered a more ldquoobjectiverdquoaudience for the remainder it was the first time they had seen the other groupsrsquo photos

Additionally we surveyed which photos resonated most with or had the strongestimpact on observers at the final presentation The two most frequently selected photoswere not particularly aesthetic or subtle however they were strong direct and memorableimages Furthermore they communicate clear messages concerning action and a need tochange (Figures 7 and 8)

In commenting on the impact of the presentations only 56 of all survey respondentsconfirmed that the photovoice project raised their awareness of climate change However71 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project reinforced their views withseveral respondents commenting that they already had a high level of awareness ofclimate change Nevertheless there was evidence that the presentations had providedgreater clarity and an awareness of othersrsquo perspectives As one respondent remarked

Irsquom already a convinced activist ndash but this project has pinned down the issues on a local level

Figure 6 Who cares Chain reaction people fish birds (resident)

644 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Importantly 91 indicated that the presentations increased their understanding of othersrsquoviews and this was common to all participant groups In addition a high percentage773 felt that the Floating Land event affected their interest and awareness of climatechange revealing the value of diverse forms of communication in addressing climatechange issues

Figure 7 The end of the ldquogood yearsrdquo (visitor)

Figure 8 Are we still asleep Why do not we do something (resident)

Local Environment 645

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

The Floating Land Event is a wonderful opportunity to meet discuss and seek alternatives ndashwith fellow residents as well as visitors of all shades and cultures

been aware of these issues but meeting Tuvalu people and seeing photos of Tuvalu hashad a significant impact

The impact of the images and related captions in motivating participants was also evident as69 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project encouraged them to take actionwith comments including

I feel that personally and collectively there needs to be less talk and more action

Helped us decide to be more active in the cause

Of interest is that only three of the nine (33) non-photovoice group respondents indicatedthat the project influenced them to a large degree in their responses to questions aboutstimulating interest raising awareness shifting their views and encouraging them totake action in climate change While the sample is not large enough to draw substantiveconclusions it does suggest that participating directly in the photovoice experiencewould have greater impact than simply observing the output consistent with communitydevelopment literature (Ife and Tesoriero 2006)

In these ways the photovoice project gave voice to local people whose knowledge wasgrounded in the specific and juxtaposed these views with those of two groups who broughtin ldquooutsiderrdquo perspectives This facilitated an increased understanding of commonalitiesand differences generated consensus concerning climate change and was effective inencouraging many of the photovoice participants to take action (Figure 9)

Conclusionssignificance of the research

The ldquoat the waterrsquos edgerdquo photovoice project was found to be effective in expressing threedifferent groupsrsquo values about climate change It implemented the following

illustrated common ground among the three groups in terms of sense of place caringfor place and concern about climate change

Figure 9 The time for contemplation is over (visitor)

646 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

empowered individuals fostered expression and promoted understanding andawareness of differing perspectives among different groups and

motivated participants to take action about climate change (although whether they door not is not tested by this methodology)

These findings are inter-related in terms of prompting social action Reconciling differ-ences identifying common ground and building consensus are important precursors to col-laboration and collective action The critical reflection components of the photovoicemethodology that occur while taking photos during group interaction and during the pres-entation of photos contribute to a re-evaluation of onersquos experience and social learningVisual images engage the emotions (Mason 2004) and are a useful way to communicatedeeply held views (Wang et al 1998) The capacity of images to communicate in termsof metaphor and to convey multilayered meanings draw out feelings and emotions in exter-nal parties as well as in participants Furthermore Carlson et al (2006) claim that thephotovoice method contributes to social change because it challenges assumptionsembedded in cultural norms and elicits emotional engagement critical reflection cognitiveawakening and the intention to act Thus it can contribute to the ldquonew lsquolevels of con-sciousnessrsquo required to address the substantial lsquoproblemrsquo of climate changerdquo (Pettenger2007 p 3) We suggest that photovoice as a visualisation technique demonstrated that itcould contribute to building both ldquobondingrdquo and ldquobridgingrdquo social capital (Putnam2000) local participants indicated that they cooperated much more than usual (bonding)all participants indicated increased awareness of othersrsquo perspectives (bridging)

The outcomes also reflected the interplay between local and global issues and actionAll groups identified critical issues at a global scale for example the photo of sails onthe lake titled ldquoThe last fleet leaves Tuvalu after the Arctic ice sheet meltsrdquo They alsoidentified the need for collective action with a photo of a rainbow over the lake titledldquoAlways hope when people share ideasrdquo and another photo of footprints in the sand entitledldquoEveryone owns the waterrsquos edgerdquo It appeared though that it is easier to identify specificactions when they are associated with a ldquoplacerdquo as residents addressed the issues from aspecific and local perspective This was illustrated by an array of residentsrsquo photos whichincluded ldquocombating invasive weedsrdquo ldquopeople own the streets not carsrdquo and a dysfunc-tional stormwater drain By drawing out values as well as threats the project shiftedlocal participants from a sense of powerlessness in relation to climate change to a senseof hope and recognition that their collaborative actions were meaningful In additionsharing their personal constructs about climate change elicited a strong need to act nowamong participants Thus this research has broader implications as it advances understand-ings of perceptions and social constructions of climate change ndash an emerging and criticalarea of international research

As a case study of a specific regional event within the NBR this research contributes tothe Councilrsquos and NBRrsquos measurable identifiers of progress towards its and UNESCOrsquosMan and the Biosphere objectives ndash to ldquodemonstrate innovative approaches to conservationand sustainable developmentrdquo and to produce and disseminate research findings interna-tionally which ldquopromote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans andthe biosphererdquo (UNESCO 2002 p 198) Such events represent social learning environ-ments ldquoto experiment with and showcase various approachesrdquo to sustainability ldquothat are cul-turally relevant to local communitiesrdquo (UNESCO 2002) Moreover set within the context ofthe NBR governance arrangements with its partnering sector boards the engaging photo-voice project and Floating Land event contributed to building adaptive capacity andreinforced the essential role of local people This research makes explicit Biosphere

Local Environment 647

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

goals concerning environmental awareness and stewardship by eliciting and communicat-ing differing communitiesrsquo views about ldquobeingrdquo and living at the waterrsquos edge By placingthe outcomes on the internet we showcase the approach and offer the technique as one thatcould be applied elsewhere among even more disparate groups to address issues such assustainability climate change mitigation and adaptation To further fulfil the potential ofsuch methods to break unsustainable patterns and inspire transformation this projectcould be used as a basis for a council-wide or even global project whereby local groupsgenerate their own narratives about climate change issues opportunities and actionThese could then be presented to relevant decision-makers in their communities andcould contribute to a global website promoting climate action

Photovoice has often been used as part of longer term community development projectsand can be implemented in many different ways In this case the time constraints appearedto focus the participants on reaching a consensus on photo-selection captions and the pres-entation format quickly while still capturing all voices While it could be argued that theproject involved groups already interested in climate change issues the value that partici-pants placed on sharing and appreciating different viewpoints suggests that the process hasmerit in fostering understanding and collaborative action Ultimately the project illustrateda specific approach which was both enjoyable and engaging for future self-organising ofcommunity groups around complex issues It promoted dialogue and understanding ofothersrsquo perspectives and effectively fostered social capital as a basis for building commu-nity resilience during times of uncertainty

AcknowledgementsWe appreciate the time and effort of all the participants of the ldquoAt the Waterrsquos Edgerdquo photovoiceproject the support of organisers of the Floating Land event and University of the Sunshine Coastfor funding

ReferencesAbel N et al 1998 Mental models and communication in agriculture Canberra ACT Rural

Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No 98140Adger W et al 2005 Social-ecological resilience to coastal disasters Science 309 (5737)

1036ndash1039Baldwin C 2008 Integrating values and interest in water planning using a consensus-building

approach Thesis (PhD) The University of QueenslandBaldwin C and Bycroft P 2009 Governance options for maintaining values in times of change In

Proceedings people and the sea V ldquoliving with uncertainty and adapting to changerdquoAmsterdam The Netherlands Centre for Maritime Research (MARE) 1ndash31

Ballinger C 2006 Preface In K Wilson ed Creative territories site specific art as communionTewantin QLD Noosa Council 3ndash4

Bressers H and Kuks S 2003 What does ldquogovernancerdquo means From conception to elaboration InH Bressers and W Rosenbaum eds Achieving sustainable development the challenge ofgovernance across social scales Westport CT Praeger 65ndash88

Carlson E Engebretson J and Chamberlain R 2006 Photovoice as a social process of criticalconsciousness Qualitative Health Research 16 (6) 836ndash852

Cheong S 2008 Controlling the coast Ocean and Coastal Management 51 (5) 391ndash396Cornelius H 1998 The gentle revolution summary Chatswood NSW Simon and SchusterDinsdale E and Fenton M 2006 Assessing coral reef condition eliciting community meanings

Society and Natural Resources 19 (3) 239ndash258Floating Land 2009 Photovoice research project [online] Available from httpwwwfloatingland

comau [Accessed 12 December 2009]Harding R ed 1998 Environmental decision-making Annandale NSW The Federation Press

648 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Importantly 91 indicated that the presentations increased their understanding of othersrsquoviews and this was common to all participant groups In addition a high percentage773 felt that the Floating Land event affected their interest and awareness of climatechange revealing the value of diverse forms of communication in addressing climatechange issues

Figure 7 The end of the ldquogood yearsrdquo (visitor)

Figure 8 Are we still asleep Why do not we do something (resident)

Local Environment 645

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

The Floating Land Event is a wonderful opportunity to meet discuss and seek alternatives ndashwith fellow residents as well as visitors of all shades and cultures

been aware of these issues but meeting Tuvalu people and seeing photos of Tuvalu hashad a significant impact

The impact of the images and related captions in motivating participants was also evident as69 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project encouraged them to take actionwith comments including

I feel that personally and collectively there needs to be less talk and more action

Helped us decide to be more active in the cause

Of interest is that only three of the nine (33) non-photovoice group respondents indicatedthat the project influenced them to a large degree in their responses to questions aboutstimulating interest raising awareness shifting their views and encouraging them totake action in climate change While the sample is not large enough to draw substantiveconclusions it does suggest that participating directly in the photovoice experiencewould have greater impact than simply observing the output consistent with communitydevelopment literature (Ife and Tesoriero 2006)

In these ways the photovoice project gave voice to local people whose knowledge wasgrounded in the specific and juxtaposed these views with those of two groups who broughtin ldquooutsiderrdquo perspectives This facilitated an increased understanding of commonalitiesand differences generated consensus concerning climate change and was effective inencouraging many of the photovoice participants to take action (Figure 9)

Conclusionssignificance of the research

The ldquoat the waterrsquos edgerdquo photovoice project was found to be effective in expressing threedifferent groupsrsquo values about climate change It implemented the following

illustrated common ground among the three groups in terms of sense of place caringfor place and concern about climate change

Figure 9 The time for contemplation is over (visitor)

646 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

empowered individuals fostered expression and promoted understanding andawareness of differing perspectives among different groups and

motivated participants to take action about climate change (although whether they door not is not tested by this methodology)

These findings are inter-related in terms of prompting social action Reconciling differ-ences identifying common ground and building consensus are important precursors to col-laboration and collective action The critical reflection components of the photovoicemethodology that occur while taking photos during group interaction and during the pres-entation of photos contribute to a re-evaluation of onersquos experience and social learningVisual images engage the emotions (Mason 2004) and are a useful way to communicatedeeply held views (Wang et al 1998) The capacity of images to communicate in termsof metaphor and to convey multilayered meanings draw out feelings and emotions in exter-nal parties as well as in participants Furthermore Carlson et al (2006) claim that thephotovoice method contributes to social change because it challenges assumptionsembedded in cultural norms and elicits emotional engagement critical reflection cognitiveawakening and the intention to act Thus it can contribute to the ldquonew lsquolevels of con-sciousnessrsquo required to address the substantial lsquoproblemrsquo of climate changerdquo (Pettenger2007 p 3) We suggest that photovoice as a visualisation technique demonstrated that itcould contribute to building both ldquobondingrdquo and ldquobridgingrdquo social capital (Putnam2000) local participants indicated that they cooperated much more than usual (bonding)all participants indicated increased awareness of othersrsquo perspectives (bridging)

The outcomes also reflected the interplay between local and global issues and actionAll groups identified critical issues at a global scale for example the photo of sails onthe lake titled ldquoThe last fleet leaves Tuvalu after the Arctic ice sheet meltsrdquo They alsoidentified the need for collective action with a photo of a rainbow over the lake titledldquoAlways hope when people share ideasrdquo and another photo of footprints in the sand entitledldquoEveryone owns the waterrsquos edgerdquo It appeared though that it is easier to identify specificactions when they are associated with a ldquoplacerdquo as residents addressed the issues from aspecific and local perspective This was illustrated by an array of residentsrsquo photos whichincluded ldquocombating invasive weedsrdquo ldquopeople own the streets not carsrdquo and a dysfunc-tional stormwater drain By drawing out values as well as threats the project shiftedlocal participants from a sense of powerlessness in relation to climate change to a senseof hope and recognition that their collaborative actions were meaningful In additionsharing their personal constructs about climate change elicited a strong need to act nowamong participants Thus this research has broader implications as it advances understand-ings of perceptions and social constructions of climate change ndash an emerging and criticalarea of international research

As a case study of a specific regional event within the NBR this research contributes tothe Councilrsquos and NBRrsquos measurable identifiers of progress towards its and UNESCOrsquosMan and the Biosphere objectives ndash to ldquodemonstrate innovative approaches to conservationand sustainable developmentrdquo and to produce and disseminate research findings interna-tionally which ldquopromote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans andthe biosphererdquo (UNESCO 2002 p 198) Such events represent social learning environ-ments ldquoto experiment with and showcase various approachesrdquo to sustainability ldquothat are cul-turally relevant to local communitiesrdquo (UNESCO 2002) Moreover set within the context ofthe NBR governance arrangements with its partnering sector boards the engaging photo-voice project and Floating Land event contributed to building adaptive capacity andreinforced the essential role of local people This research makes explicit Biosphere

Local Environment 647

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

goals concerning environmental awareness and stewardship by eliciting and communicat-ing differing communitiesrsquo views about ldquobeingrdquo and living at the waterrsquos edge By placingthe outcomes on the internet we showcase the approach and offer the technique as one thatcould be applied elsewhere among even more disparate groups to address issues such assustainability climate change mitigation and adaptation To further fulfil the potential ofsuch methods to break unsustainable patterns and inspire transformation this projectcould be used as a basis for a council-wide or even global project whereby local groupsgenerate their own narratives about climate change issues opportunities and actionThese could then be presented to relevant decision-makers in their communities andcould contribute to a global website promoting climate action

Photovoice has often been used as part of longer term community development projectsand can be implemented in many different ways In this case the time constraints appearedto focus the participants on reaching a consensus on photo-selection captions and the pres-entation format quickly while still capturing all voices While it could be argued that theproject involved groups already interested in climate change issues the value that partici-pants placed on sharing and appreciating different viewpoints suggests that the process hasmerit in fostering understanding and collaborative action Ultimately the project illustrateda specific approach which was both enjoyable and engaging for future self-organising ofcommunity groups around complex issues It promoted dialogue and understanding ofothersrsquo perspectives and effectively fostered social capital as a basis for building commu-nity resilience during times of uncertainty

AcknowledgementsWe appreciate the time and effort of all the participants of the ldquoAt the Waterrsquos Edgerdquo photovoiceproject the support of organisers of the Floating Land event and University of the Sunshine Coastfor funding

ReferencesAbel N et al 1998 Mental models and communication in agriculture Canberra ACT Rural

Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No 98140Adger W et al 2005 Social-ecological resilience to coastal disasters Science 309 (5737)

1036ndash1039Baldwin C 2008 Integrating values and interest in water planning using a consensus-building

approach Thesis (PhD) The University of QueenslandBaldwin C and Bycroft P 2009 Governance options for maintaining values in times of change In

Proceedings people and the sea V ldquoliving with uncertainty and adapting to changerdquoAmsterdam The Netherlands Centre for Maritime Research (MARE) 1ndash31

Ballinger C 2006 Preface In K Wilson ed Creative territories site specific art as communionTewantin QLD Noosa Council 3ndash4

Bressers H and Kuks S 2003 What does ldquogovernancerdquo means From conception to elaboration InH Bressers and W Rosenbaum eds Achieving sustainable development the challenge ofgovernance across social scales Westport CT Praeger 65ndash88

Carlson E Engebretson J and Chamberlain R 2006 Photovoice as a social process of criticalconsciousness Qualitative Health Research 16 (6) 836ndash852

Cheong S 2008 Controlling the coast Ocean and Coastal Management 51 (5) 391ndash396Cornelius H 1998 The gentle revolution summary Chatswood NSW Simon and SchusterDinsdale E and Fenton M 2006 Assessing coral reef condition eliciting community meanings

Society and Natural Resources 19 (3) 239ndash258Floating Land 2009 Photovoice research project [online] Available from httpwwwfloatingland

comau [Accessed 12 December 2009]Harding R ed 1998 Environmental decision-making Annandale NSW The Federation Press

648 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

The Floating Land Event is a wonderful opportunity to meet discuss and seek alternatives ndashwith fellow residents as well as visitors of all shades and cultures

been aware of these issues but meeting Tuvalu people and seeing photos of Tuvalu hashad a significant impact

The impact of the images and related captions in motivating participants was also evident as69 of those surveyed revealed that the photovoice project encouraged them to take actionwith comments including

I feel that personally and collectively there needs to be less talk and more action

Helped us decide to be more active in the cause

Of interest is that only three of the nine (33) non-photovoice group respondents indicatedthat the project influenced them to a large degree in their responses to questions aboutstimulating interest raising awareness shifting their views and encouraging them totake action in climate change While the sample is not large enough to draw substantiveconclusions it does suggest that participating directly in the photovoice experiencewould have greater impact than simply observing the output consistent with communitydevelopment literature (Ife and Tesoriero 2006)

In these ways the photovoice project gave voice to local people whose knowledge wasgrounded in the specific and juxtaposed these views with those of two groups who broughtin ldquooutsiderrdquo perspectives This facilitated an increased understanding of commonalitiesand differences generated consensus concerning climate change and was effective inencouraging many of the photovoice participants to take action (Figure 9)

Conclusionssignificance of the research

The ldquoat the waterrsquos edgerdquo photovoice project was found to be effective in expressing threedifferent groupsrsquo values about climate change It implemented the following

illustrated common ground among the three groups in terms of sense of place caringfor place and concern about climate change

Figure 9 The time for contemplation is over (visitor)

646 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

empowered individuals fostered expression and promoted understanding andawareness of differing perspectives among different groups and

motivated participants to take action about climate change (although whether they door not is not tested by this methodology)

These findings are inter-related in terms of prompting social action Reconciling differ-ences identifying common ground and building consensus are important precursors to col-laboration and collective action The critical reflection components of the photovoicemethodology that occur while taking photos during group interaction and during the pres-entation of photos contribute to a re-evaluation of onersquos experience and social learningVisual images engage the emotions (Mason 2004) and are a useful way to communicatedeeply held views (Wang et al 1998) The capacity of images to communicate in termsof metaphor and to convey multilayered meanings draw out feelings and emotions in exter-nal parties as well as in participants Furthermore Carlson et al (2006) claim that thephotovoice method contributes to social change because it challenges assumptionsembedded in cultural norms and elicits emotional engagement critical reflection cognitiveawakening and the intention to act Thus it can contribute to the ldquonew lsquolevels of con-sciousnessrsquo required to address the substantial lsquoproblemrsquo of climate changerdquo (Pettenger2007 p 3) We suggest that photovoice as a visualisation technique demonstrated that itcould contribute to building both ldquobondingrdquo and ldquobridgingrdquo social capital (Putnam2000) local participants indicated that they cooperated much more than usual (bonding)all participants indicated increased awareness of othersrsquo perspectives (bridging)

The outcomes also reflected the interplay between local and global issues and actionAll groups identified critical issues at a global scale for example the photo of sails onthe lake titled ldquoThe last fleet leaves Tuvalu after the Arctic ice sheet meltsrdquo They alsoidentified the need for collective action with a photo of a rainbow over the lake titledldquoAlways hope when people share ideasrdquo and another photo of footprints in the sand entitledldquoEveryone owns the waterrsquos edgerdquo It appeared though that it is easier to identify specificactions when they are associated with a ldquoplacerdquo as residents addressed the issues from aspecific and local perspective This was illustrated by an array of residentsrsquo photos whichincluded ldquocombating invasive weedsrdquo ldquopeople own the streets not carsrdquo and a dysfunc-tional stormwater drain By drawing out values as well as threats the project shiftedlocal participants from a sense of powerlessness in relation to climate change to a senseof hope and recognition that their collaborative actions were meaningful In additionsharing their personal constructs about climate change elicited a strong need to act nowamong participants Thus this research has broader implications as it advances understand-ings of perceptions and social constructions of climate change ndash an emerging and criticalarea of international research

As a case study of a specific regional event within the NBR this research contributes tothe Councilrsquos and NBRrsquos measurable identifiers of progress towards its and UNESCOrsquosMan and the Biosphere objectives ndash to ldquodemonstrate innovative approaches to conservationand sustainable developmentrdquo and to produce and disseminate research findings interna-tionally which ldquopromote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans andthe biosphererdquo (UNESCO 2002 p 198) Such events represent social learning environ-ments ldquoto experiment with and showcase various approachesrdquo to sustainability ldquothat are cul-turally relevant to local communitiesrdquo (UNESCO 2002) Moreover set within the context ofthe NBR governance arrangements with its partnering sector boards the engaging photo-voice project and Floating Land event contributed to building adaptive capacity andreinforced the essential role of local people This research makes explicit Biosphere

Local Environment 647

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

goals concerning environmental awareness and stewardship by eliciting and communicat-ing differing communitiesrsquo views about ldquobeingrdquo and living at the waterrsquos edge By placingthe outcomes on the internet we showcase the approach and offer the technique as one thatcould be applied elsewhere among even more disparate groups to address issues such assustainability climate change mitigation and adaptation To further fulfil the potential ofsuch methods to break unsustainable patterns and inspire transformation this projectcould be used as a basis for a council-wide or even global project whereby local groupsgenerate their own narratives about climate change issues opportunities and actionThese could then be presented to relevant decision-makers in their communities andcould contribute to a global website promoting climate action

Photovoice has often been used as part of longer term community development projectsand can be implemented in many different ways In this case the time constraints appearedto focus the participants on reaching a consensus on photo-selection captions and the pres-entation format quickly while still capturing all voices While it could be argued that theproject involved groups already interested in climate change issues the value that partici-pants placed on sharing and appreciating different viewpoints suggests that the process hasmerit in fostering understanding and collaborative action Ultimately the project illustrateda specific approach which was both enjoyable and engaging for future self-organising ofcommunity groups around complex issues It promoted dialogue and understanding ofothersrsquo perspectives and effectively fostered social capital as a basis for building commu-nity resilience during times of uncertainty

AcknowledgementsWe appreciate the time and effort of all the participants of the ldquoAt the Waterrsquos Edgerdquo photovoiceproject the support of organisers of the Floating Land event and University of the Sunshine Coastfor funding

ReferencesAbel N et al 1998 Mental models and communication in agriculture Canberra ACT Rural

Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No 98140Adger W et al 2005 Social-ecological resilience to coastal disasters Science 309 (5737)

1036ndash1039Baldwin C 2008 Integrating values and interest in water planning using a consensus-building

approach Thesis (PhD) The University of QueenslandBaldwin C and Bycroft P 2009 Governance options for maintaining values in times of change In

Proceedings people and the sea V ldquoliving with uncertainty and adapting to changerdquoAmsterdam The Netherlands Centre for Maritime Research (MARE) 1ndash31

Ballinger C 2006 Preface In K Wilson ed Creative territories site specific art as communionTewantin QLD Noosa Council 3ndash4

Bressers H and Kuks S 2003 What does ldquogovernancerdquo means From conception to elaboration InH Bressers and W Rosenbaum eds Achieving sustainable development the challenge ofgovernance across social scales Westport CT Praeger 65ndash88

Carlson E Engebretson J and Chamberlain R 2006 Photovoice as a social process of criticalconsciousness Qualitative Health Research 16 (6) 836ndash852

Cheong S 2008 Controlling the coast Ocean and Coastal Management 51 (5) 391ndash396Cornelius H 1998 The gentle revolution summary Chatswood NSW Simon and SchusterDinsdale E and Fenton M 2006 Assessing coral reef condition eliciting community meanings

Society and Natural Resources 19 (3) 239ndash258Floating Land 2009 Photovoice research project [online] Available from httpwwwfloatingland

comau [Accessed 12 December 2009]Harding R ed 1998 Environmental decision-making Annandale NSW The Federation Press

648 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

empowered individuals fostered expression and promoted understanding andawareness of differing perspectives among different groups and

motivated participants to take action about climate change (although whether they door not is not tested by this methodology)

These findings are inter-related in terms of prompting social action Reconciling differ-ences identifying common ground and building consensus are important precursors to col-laboration and collective action The critical reflection components of the photovoicemethodology that occur while taking photos during group interaction and during the pres-entation of photos contribute to a re-evaluation of onersquos experience and social learningVisual images engage the emotions (Mason 2004) and are a useful way to communicatedeeply held views (Wang et al 1998) The capacity of images to communicate in termsof metaphor and to convey multilayered meanings draw out feelings and emotions in exter-nal parties as well as in participants Furthermore Carlson et al (2006) claim that thephotovoice method contributes to social change because it challenges assumptionsembedded in cultural norms and elicits emotional engagement critical reflection cognitiveawakening and the intention to act Thus it can contribute to the ldquonew lsquolevels of con-sciousnessrsquo required to address the substantial lsquoproblemrsquo of climate changerdquo (Pettenger2007 p 3) We suggest that photovoice as a visualisation technique demonstrated that itcould contribute to building both ldquobondingrdquo and ldquobridgingrdquo social capital (Putnam2000) local participants indicated that they cooperated much more than usual (bonding)all participants indicated increased awareness of othersrsquo perspectives (bridging)

The outcomes also reflected the interplay between local and global issues and actionAll groups identified critical issues at a global scale for example the photo of sails onthe lake titled ldquoThe last fleet leaves Tuvalu after the Arctic ice sheet meltsrdquo They alsoidentified the need for collective action with a photo of a rainbow over the lake titledldquoAlways hope when people share ideasrdquo and another photo of footprints in the sand entitledldquoEveryone owns the waterrsquos edgerdquo It appeared though that it is easier to identify specificactions when they are associated with a ldquoplacerdquo as residents addressed the issues from aspecific and local perspective This was illustrated by an array of residentsrsquo photos whichincluded ldquocombating invasive weedsrdquo ldquopeople own the streets not carsrdquo and a dysfunc-tional stormwater drain By drawing out values as well as threats the project shiftedlocal participants from a sense of powerlessness in relation to climate change to a senseof hope and recognition that their collaborative actions were meaningful In additionsharing their personal constructs about climate change elicited a strong need to act nowamong participants Thus this research has broader implications as it advances understand-ings of perceptions and social constructions of climate change ndash an emerging and criticalarea of international research

As a case study of a specific regional event within the NBR this research contributes tothe Councilrsquos and NBRrsquos measurable identifiers of progress towards its and UNESCOrsquosMan and the Biosphere objectives ndash to ldquodemonstrate innovative approaches to conservationand sustainable developmentrdquo and to produce and disseminate research findings interna-tionally which ldquopromote and demonstrate a balanced relationship between humans andthe biosphererdquo (UNESCO 2002 p 198) Such events represent social learning environ-ments ldquoto experiment with and showcase various approachesrdquo to sustainability ldquothat are cul-turally relevant to local communitiesrdquo (UNESCO 2002) Moreover set within the context ofthe NBR governance arrangements with its partnering sector boards the engaging photo-voice project and Floating Land event contributed to building adaptive capacity andreinforced the essential role of local people This research makes explicit Biosphere

Local Environment 647

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

goals concerning environmental awareness and stewardship by eliciting and communicat-ing differing communitiesrsquo views about ldquobeingrdquo and living at the waterrsquos edge By placingthe outcomes on the internet we showcase the approach and offer the technique as one thatcould be applied elsewhere among even more disparate groups to address issues such assustainability climate change mitigation and adaptation To further fulfil the potential ofsuch methods to break unsustainable patterns and inspire transformation this projectcould be used as a basis for a council-wide or even global project whereby local groupsgenerate their own narratives about climate change issues opportunities and actionThese could then be presented to relevant decision-makers in their communities andcould contribute to a global website promoting climate action

Photovoice has often been used as part of longer term community development projectsand can be implemented in many different ways In this case the time constraints appearedto focus the participants on reaching a consensus on photo-selection captions and the pres-entation format quickly while still capturing all voices While it could be argued that theproject involved groups already interested in climate change issues the value that partici-pants placed on sharing and appreciating different viewpoints suggests that the process hasmerit in fostering understanding and collaborative action Ultimately the project illustrateda specific approach which was both enjoyable and engaging for future self-organising ofcommunity groups around complex issues It promoted dialogue and understanding ofothersrsquo perspectives and effectively fostered social capital as a basis for building commu-nity resilience during times of uncertainty

AcknowledgementsWe appreciate the time and effort of all the participants of the ldquoAt the Waterrsquos Edgerdquo photovoiceproject the support of organisers of the Floating Land event and University of the Sunshine Coastfor funding

ReferencesAbel N et al 1998 Mental models and communication in agriculture Canberra ACT Rural

Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No 98140Adger W et al 2005 Social-ecological resilience to coastal disasters Science 309 (5737)

1036ndash1039Baldwin C 2008 Integrating values and interest in water planning using a consensus-building

approach Thesis (PhD) The University of QueenslandBaldwin C and Bycroft P 2009 Governance options for maintaining values in times of change In

Proceedings people and the sea V ldquoliving with uncertainty and adapting to changerdquoAmsterdam The Netherlands Centre for Maritime Research (MARE) 1ndash31

Ballinger C 2006 Preface In K Wilson ed Creative territories site specific art as communionTewantin QLD Noosa Council 3ndash4

Bressers H and Kuks S 2003 What does ldquogovernancerdquo means From conception to elaboration InH Bressers and W Rosenbaum eds Achieving sustainable development the challenge ofgovernance across social scales Westport CT Praeger 65ndash88

Carlson E Engebretson J and Chamberlain R 2006 Photovoice as a social process of criticalconsciousness Qualitative Health Research 16 (6) 836ndash852

Cheong S 2008 Controlling the coast Ocean and Coastal Management 51 (5) 391ndash396Cornelius H 1998 The gentle revolution summary Chatswood NSW Simon and SchusterDinsdale E and Fenton M 2006 Assessing coral reef condition eliciting community meanings

Society and Natural Resources 19 (3) 239ndash258Floating Land 2009 Photovoice research project [online] Available from httpwwwfloatingland

comau [Accessed 12 December 2009]Harding R ed 1998 Environmental decision-making Annandale NSW The Federation Press

648 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

goals concerning environmental awareness and stewardship by eliciting and communicat-ing differing communitiesrsquo views about ldquobeingrdquo and living at the waterrsquos edge By placingthe outcomes on the internet we showcase the approach and offer the technique as one thatcould be applied elsewhere among even more disparate groups to address issues such assustainability climate change mitigation and adaptation To further fulfil the potential ofsuch methods to break unsustainable patterns and inspire transformation this projectcould be used as a basis for a council-wide or even global project whereby local groupsgenerate their own narratives about climate change issues opportunities and actionThese could then be presented to relevant decision-makers in their communities andcould contribute to a global website promoting climate action

Photovoice has often been used as part of longer term community development projectsand can be implemented in many different ways In this case the time constraints appearedto focus the participants on reaching a consensus on photo-selection captions and the pres-entation format quickly while still capturing all voices While it could be argued that theproject involved groups already interested in climate change issues the value that partici-pants placed on sharing and appreciating different viewpoints suggests that the process hasmerit in fostering understanding and collaborative action Ultimately the project illustrateda specific approach which was both enjoyable and engaging for future self-organising ofcommunity groups around complex issues It promoted dialogue and understanding ofothersrsquo perspectives and effectively fostered social capital as a basis for building commu-nity resilience during times of uncertainty

AcknowledgementsWe appreciate the time and effort of all the participants of the ldquoAt the Waterrsquos Edgerdquo photovoiceproject the support of organisers of the Floating Land event and University of the Sunshine Coastfor funding

ReferencesAbel N et al 1998 Mental models and communication in agriculture Canberra ACT Rural

Industries Research and Development Corporation Publication No 98140Adger W et al 2005 Social-ecological resilience to coastal disasters Science 309 (5737)

1036ndash1039Baldwin C 2008 Integrating values and interest in water planning using a consensus-building

approach Thesis (PhD) The University of QueenslandBaldwin C and Bycroft P 2009 Governance options for maintaining values in times of change In

Proceedings people and the sea V ldquoliving with uncertainty and adapting to changerdquoAmsterdam The Netherlands Centre for Maritime Research (MARE) 1ndash31

Ballinger C 2006 Preface In K Wilson ed Creative territories site specific art as communionTewantin QLD Noosa Council 3ndash4

Bressers H and Kuks S 2003 What does ldquogovernancerdquo means From conception to elaboration InH Bressers and W Rosenbaum eds Achieving sustainable development the challenge ofgovernance across social scales Westport CT Praeger 65ndash88

Carlson E Engebretson J and Chamberlain R 2006 Photovoice as a social process of criticalconsciousness Qualitative Health Research 16 (6) 836ndash852

Cheong S 2008 Controlling the coast Ocean and Coastal Management 51 (5) 391ndash396Cornelius H 1998 The gentle revolution summary Chatswood NSW Simon and SchusterDinsdale E and Fenton M 2006 Assessing coral reef condition eliciting community meanings

Society and Natural Resources 19 (3) 239ndash258Floating Land 2009 Photovoice research project [online] Available from httpwwwfloatingland

comau [Accessed 12 December 2009]Harding R ed 1998 Environmental decision-making Annandale NSW The Federation Press

648 C Baldwin and L Chandler

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4

Ife J and Tesoriero F 2006 Community development community based alternatives in an age ofglobalisation Frenchs Forest NSW Pearson Education Australia

Mason J 2004 Qualitative researching 2nd ed London Sage Publications LtdMorgan A 2009 Learning communities cities and regions for sustainable development and global

citizenship Local Environment 14 (5) 443ndash459Pettenger M ed 2007 The social construction of climate change power knowledge norms

discourses Aldershot England Ashgate Publishing LtdPutnam R 2000 Bowling alone the collapse and revival of American Community New York

Simon and SchusterSchluter M and Pahl-Wostl C 2007 Mechanisms of resilience in common-pool resource manage-

ment systems an agent-based model of water use in a river basin Ecology and Society [online]12 (2) 4 Available from httpwwwecologyandsocietyorgvol12iss2art4 [Accessed 1 July2010]

SCRC (Sunshine Coast Regional Council) 2008 History of Noosa Biosphere Reserve [online]Available from httpwwwnoosaqldgovaunoosabiospherereservehistorybiosphereshtml[Accessed 18 August 2009]

SCRC (Sunshine Coast Regional Council) 2010 Noosa Biosphere Ltd 2010 The Cultural SectorBoard [online] Noosa Biosphere Noosa Noosa Biosphere Ltd Available from httpwwwnoosabiosphereorgaufacts-visioncommunity-sector-boardscultural [Accessed 2 April 2010]

Susskind L McKearnan S and Thomas-Larmer J eds 1999 Consensus building handbook acomprehensive guide to reaching agreement Thousand Oaks CA Sage Publications

Swaab R et al 2002 Multiparty negotiation support the role of visualisationrsquos influence on thedevelopment of shared mental models Journal of Management Information Systems 19 (1)129ndash150

UNESCO 2002 Biosphere reserves special places for people and nature Paris UNESCOWang C 2001 Photovoice toolkit [online] Available from httpwwwphotovoicecombackground

indexhtml [Accessed 16 September 2004]Wang C and Burris M 1997 Photovoice concept methodology and use for participatory needs

assessment Health Education and Behavior 24 (3) 369ndash387Wang C et al 1998 Photovoice as a participatory health promotion strategy Health Promotion

International 13 (1) 75ndash86Webbe S and Weller P 2008 A public interest map an independent review of Queensland

Government Boards Committees and Statutory Authorities Part A Report 1 December 2008Brisbane Queensland Government

Zedillo E ed 2008 Global warming looking beyond Kyoto Washington DC BrookingsUniversity Press

Local Environment 649

Dow

nloa

ded

by [

Uni

vers

ity o

f C

onne

ctic

ut]

at 0

542

11

Oct

ober

201

4