Case Study Summary

This case study responds to a community identified need to understand the reasons for increased flooding leading to topsoil erosion and why their sources of drinking water are declining and the extent to which these situations can quickly become unsustainable.

The Research & Conservation Foundation (RCF) of Papua New Guinea, is a conservation based not-for-profit, non-government organization. They are investigating how climate change communication and education (CCE) intersects with a remote, rural community and a semi-urban community in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea.

The experiences of one rural community and one semi-urban community in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea will be used to investigate the effect of the CCE strategies used by RCF and to determine the extent of the impact and the lessons that can be shared with others. This will be done through community meetings, face to face interviews with a diverse and equitable range of stakeholders (group and individual), field visits, and a review of existing work.

The Case Study research aims to create an environment where people better understand reactions to climate change, and are then better equipped to assist both their neighbours and their communities. This also helps people provide feedback on communication approaches and strategies. These communities are dependent daily on the natural environment for food, water and other natural resources for survival. This case study help to show the power people have in identifying their constraints, seeking external assistance and preparing to take the right actions to protect their livelihoods.