(Social) Innovation in Climate Services Provision

Maria Manez Costa , Louis Celliers 

The development and adoption of climate services is a dynamic process requiring integration and social acceptance. This study explores how innovative approaches to climate service design can address usability and acceptability gaps and support their integration into urban climate risk management. Using transdisciplinary co-design methods, the study highlights the importance of engaging users to co-produce actionable and impactful services. Innovation in climate services disrupts traditional behaviours and creates new decision frameworks that help users navigate climate management cycles. The paper presents five case studies that illustrate the transformative potential of co-designed climate services in promoting adaptation and resilience. It highlights the reciprocal relationship between climate services and social innovation, with the latter fostering inclusivity and creativity. The findings underscore the role of climate services in driving social innovation and building resilient societies, demonstrating that a user-centred approach improves climate risk management and supports broader social and environmental change.