Ambiguity: Why does it hold a key role in the adaptation to climate change?

Ambiguity is a unique form of uncertainty that goes beyond merely indicating knowledge deficits or gaps; rather, it represents a state of confusion among decision actors. This confusion arises within a group due to the coexistence of diverse, and at times, conflicting meanings and interpretations concerning a situation. In the presence of ambiguity, it may not be clear what the main issues of concern are, who hold responsibility over them, what needs to be done. As an inherent characteristic of a collective, ambiguity is tightly linked with diversity and plurality, and the processes and procedures that underlie group dynamics. Here, I argue that ambiguity plays a pivotal role in adapting to climate change.

To investigate the functioning of ambiguity, I draw upon (uncertainty) relational theory and analyse different study cases of water management. The results suggest that ambiguity can yield significant benefits in adaptation. It enhances flexibility in managing unknown conditions, enables the anticipation of conflicts and avoids maladaptation, and creates opportunities for establishing new supportive relationships and alternative solutions. These insights contribute to a nuanced understanding of the role of ambiguity in climate change adaptation, offering valuable guidance for policymakers, water managers, and stakeholders engaged in crafting resilient and sustainable water management strategies.