International Network of Boundary Organizations on Adaptation
Who we are
The International Network of Boundary Organizations on Adaptation (INBOA) brings together organizations working at the critical interface of science and decision-making for climate adaptation. By linking these organizations, the network acts as an accelerator for their individual development and joint impact — ultimately increasing adaptation globally.
Our vision
In countries around the world, adaptation to climate change is accelerated by increased knowledge and capacity, generated by long-standing ties between scientists and decision-makers, and by greater collaboration between organizations that foster these links.
Our mission
Create a dynamic space for mutual learning among adaptation-focused boundary organizations to enhance their impact, help them grow, and increase their collective contribution to global adaptation.
Governance
Governance structure : The network is co-created and co-managed by its participating member organizations. An advisory committee reflecting regional diversity is composed of members and boundary organization experts. It provides guidance to the secretariat on activities and network development. The network’s governance and structure will continue to evolve.
Secretariat : Ouranos is serving as the secretariat during the initial phase of INBOA’s development.
Partners : INBOA expresses its gratitude to the Government of Québec for providing the first grant that enabled the establishment of the network.
History of the network
Prior to the 7th edition of the 2023 Adaptation Futures international conference (AF2023), informal exchanges had already begun among some boundary organizations, highlighting the need for a more structured space for dialogue.
AF2023 provided a valuable opportunity for these organizations to meet and discuss the complexities of
bridging the gap between scientific knowledge on climate change adaptation and its use in practice ;
public policy development ;
and more generally, informing decision-making.
Ouranos, the conference organizer, held a parallel event with participating boundary organizations to explore the need for a dedicated space for discussion and knowledge sharing.
As a result, it was decided to establish an international network as a legacy project of the conference AF2023. Since 2024, the International Network of Boundary Organizations on Adaptation (INBOA) has been co-created by its members through bilateral discussions, workshops, committee meetings and all-member calls.
Our impact
- Secretariat supported by Ouranos (Montreal) host of Adaptation Futures 2023
- Officially launched at COP29 in 2024
- Advisory Committee of 8 experts meeting about 2–3 times a year
- More than 25 members, with a good north-south balance
- Over 15 activities, including panel presentations, workshops and networking events, during the network’s first 2 years of operation
- Recognition of the INBOA niche by the World Adaptation Science Program (WASP) and World Climate Research Program (WCRP)
- New collaborations amongst members
- New collaborations on panels and studies with recognized boundary organizations and boundary spanning experts.
