Emma Lea Wheeler
About
I am a PhD student in geography, particularly interested in how we can learn from local and traditional knowledge holders in the face of climate and social change through participatory methods, participatory mapping of natural resources, and specific attention to values and socio-ecological networks.
As part of RETRACE, my project explores how coastal communities in Northern Norway experience and adapt to climate-related natural hazards. In taking a systems-oriented approach I aim to understand what factors, relationships, experiences and processes influence a community's ability to be robust and resilient, and what this means from the perspective of local communities based around nature-based livelihoods. Existing indicators used to measure vulnerability and climate risk are mainly quantitative and based on national statistics or climate models and projections. Through participatory mapping and narrative methods, this study aims to complement and challenge quantitative indicators based on the experiences and perspectives of those most exposed to both direct and indirect consequences of climate change.
I have a background in geology, language studies and humanitarian aid and am passionate about interdisciplinary work where I get to listen to, learn from and convey the knowledge of people from different backgrounds, cultures and life experiences.
Publications
2025
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Aall, Carlo;
Wilkerson, Brooke E;
Sivertsen, Edvard;
Brendehaug, Eivind Andre;
Sandberg, Eli;
Angell, Elisabeth.
(2025)
Nå er det rasjonelt å planlegge ut ifra et verstefall-scenario.
https://www.forskersonen.no/
Feature article
Journal publications
-
Aall, Carlo;
Wilkerson, Brooke E;
Sivertsen, Edvard;
Brendehaug, Eivind Andre;
Sandberg, Eli;
Angell, Elisabeth.
(2025)
Nå er det rasjonelt å planlegge ut ifra et verstefall-scenario.
https://www.forskersonen.no/
Feature article