Parallel Session 5.3: Mediated modeling: using systems dynamics to build collaborative tools (GERICS, NAP technical working group)

Introduction
Science is not the only source of knowledge for adaptation to climate change. Non-formal tacit knowledge at different geographical dimensions, but mostly at the local level, should also be included in the array of existing knowledge needed for adapting to climate change. Integrated completed knowledge based on transdisciplinary inputs is key for increasing the robustness of adaptation solutions and also for being able to understand better the adaptation context and the possible ambiguities and uncertainties that might arise. Transdisciplinary knowledge hybridizing provides a strong foundation for more effective adaptation management.
For the development of climate services for adaptation, we explore the application of an Integrative Knowledge Integration Framework (IKI). IKI is intended to address the incomplete knowledge of a complex system dynamic to support well-informed decisions and policy making.
The backbone of IKI is participatory system dynamics modelling. Participatory modelling is key in system dynamic modelling, providing the basis for the inclusion of all complex system perspectives. We argue that participatory modelling is essential to obtain data coming from formal and non-formal sources. In essence, this approach builds a quantitative modelling structure for a given decision context (e.g., a water resources management problem) allowing the analysis of multiple decision drivers and their interactions. It supports the inclusion of transdisciplinary knowledge through the participation in the model creation process of stakeholders and researchers. The participants actively go through the problem structuring and identification phases and support the model creation including assumptions related to local needs and conditions.

Objective and expected outcome
This session with introduce participatory system dynamics modelling (Integrative Knowledge Integration Framework – IKI) and show examples from past projects and will engage participants in exploring how new applications could be developed to support the process of formulating and implementing NAPs.