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In this paper, we argue for the inclusion of archaeology in discussions about how humans have contributed to and dealt with climate change, especially in the long term. We suggest Niche Construction Theory as a suitable framework to that end. In order to take into account both human and environmental variability, we also advocate for a situated perspective that includes the Global South as a source of knowledge production, and the Neotropics as a relevant case study to consider. To illustrate this, we review the mid-Holocene Hypsithermal period in the southern Puna and continental Patagonia, both in southern South America, by assessing the challenges posed by this climate period and the archaeological signatures of the time from a Niche Construction Theory perspective. Finally, we emphasize the importance of these considerations for policymaking. This article is part of the theme issue 'Climate change adaptation needs a science of culture'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significant riverine archaeological sites around the world are vulnerable to flooding associated with climate change. However, identifying sites most at risk is not straightforward. We critically review the parameters used in 22 published analyses of risk to riverine archaeology from climate change (ARRACC). Covering 17 countries globally, the ARRACC's risk parameters are highly variable. Proximity to rivers and projected changes to extreme flood frequency are the most commonly employed. However, to be robust, future ARRACC should select from a wider range of hazard parameters, including channel mobility/type, erosion/sedimentation patterns, land use and engineering works, as well as parameters for site sensitivity to flooding and heritage significance. To assist in this, we propose a basic field survey for ARRACC, to be treated primarily as a conceptual checklist or as a starting point for a bespoke ARRACC method adapted for a particular river and the objectives of local stakeholders. The framework proposes a pathway to optimal prioritisation of sites most in need of adaptation so that scarce management resources can be targeted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cultural sites are particularly important to Indigenous peoples, their identity, cosmology and sociopolitical traditions. The benefits of local control, and a lack of professional resources, necessitate the development of planning tools that support independent Indigenous cultural site adaptation. We devised and tested a methodology for non-heritage professionals to analyse options that address site loss, build site resilience and build local adaptive capacity. Indigenous rangers from Kakadu National Park and the Djelk Indigenous Protected Area, Arnhem Land, Australia, were engaged as fellow researchers via a participatory action research methodology. Rangers rejected coastal defences and relocating sites, instead prioritising routine use of a risk field survey, documentation of vulnerable sites using new digital technologies and widely communicating the climate change vulnerability of sites via a video documentary. Results support the view that rigorous approaches to cultural site adaptation can be employed independently by local Indigenous stakeholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]