In this three-part series that reflects conversations had at the launch of Public Deliberation on Climate Change and explored in the book, we will feature the successes, lessons, and a few answers to relevant FAQs. For this post, panellists from the Citizens’ Panel on Edmonton’s Energy and Climate Challenges—an initiative that was part of a five-year public deliberation project called Alberta Climate Dialogue (ABCD)—share lessons they learned during the deliberative process. For the introduction to this series, head to the first post.
What could be done better? What should organizers of public involvement exercises change or avoid?
An area that could be improved upon is sharing what was learned with the larger community. While there were many good ideas about how to sustain the work that was done in the Citizens’ Panel, the plans faltered over the years. Dedicating more time or resources to giving panellists directions on next steps would increase the chances of continuing conversations.
Find creative ways to reach beyond the initial consultation group. Organizers felt that they had missed an opportunity to take the learnings of the Citizens’ Panel members to a larger community in an attempt to build stronger cohesion and sustained engagement.
Be brave. Welcome citizens to contribute their own understanding of the issue.
Understand the fabric that is our civic society and design processes that speak directly to those people. Be intentional about building a deeper relationship with citizens.
Draw from existing structures. Why should someone who is plucked from all their networks be expected to engage effectively? Organizers felt that they could have integrated the deliberative process into existing networks where could have been more possibilities for action. Consider how each public engagement process can enrich and draw on existing civic structures. Try to leave more than there was before you arrived.
It is important to recognize the limitations of public deliberation. This is not an exercise to come up with the perfect answer. This was one conversation in a community. It is the beginning of what needs to be continued.
