Lincoln Lewis and Andy Packwood, both with the School of Architecture, will work to inform climate adaptation decision-making by documenting the working landscape of Tangier Island’s watermen. Tangier Island, located in the Chesapeake Bay, has experienced a reduction in land mass of 67% since 1850, and the current rate of sea level rise suggests that the island will need to be abandoned within the next 50 years. The island is facing extreme climate change pressures that call into question Tangier's future.
By documenting the tidal environment together with the built structures of the watermen (those who catch crab, fish, and oysters in the Bay), important aspects of the island’s economy and cultural history can be better considered with adaptation decisions.
Lewis said, “The working watermen landscape of Tangier, Virginia is integral to the island’s culture and community. However, their way of life faces many challenges due to sea level rise. Andy and I are excited to listen and learn from the community about how our efforts for the grant can best assist their needs.
Siqi Yang, a graduate researcher in the Department of Economics at UVA, will examine the ecological and economic impacts of a large water transfer project in China.
Across the globe, water scarcity is becoming a problem that researchers believe is exacerbated by climate change. In response, some countries are building or planning to develop water-transfer projects to meet the demand in water-scarce areas. China has embarked on a large water-transfer project that Yang will study. Through modelling, Yang will analyze the ecological impact this project against its market value, accounting for environmental factors.
“The opportunity to conduct in-depth research on the interplay between economic policy and environmental sustainability in developing countries is invaluable,” said Yang, “and I am grateful for the time and resources that this fellowship will provide to advance my work. With the support of experienced environmental scientists, economists, and policy experts, I can contribute meaningful insights to the field. The chance to network with these professionals also opens doors for future collaboration and career opportunities, furthering my academic and professional growth!”
UVA’s Environmental Institute has multiple programs with the aim to train the next generation of leaders in integrative research for environmental solutions. For more information on the Environmental Futures Fellows, including how to apply, click here.
