This research project emerged from the Changing Climate, Changing Health, Changing Stories project, and is spear-headed by Liane Langstaff, with myself, Sherilee Harper, Victoria Edge, and the Rigolet Inuit Community Government as co-authors. Liane undertook this work as part of a 4th year independent study course through the International Development Programme at the University of Guelph (IDEV 4200).

This research examined the potential local socio-economic impacts of climate change on the Inuit community of Rigolet, Nunatsiavut. Through in-depth interviews and a population survey, participants shared observations and perceptions of climatic and environmental change and variability in the region. Participants also related these changes to food security, and in particular, to the availability and accessibility of land foods.

As a result, this research determined that Rigolet’s economy has undergone a transition in response to climate change. Specifically, climate change has triggered increases in harvesting expenditures and caused consumers to shift from land food to market foods. Finally, food sharing — a social practice integral to Inuit culture and economy — was perceived to have decreased under climate change.

Role: Student Supervisor and Co-Author