Exploring the Preferred Knowledge Mobilization Formats to Enact Climate Action Among Canadian Municipal Staff

Abstract

Canadian municipalities are central to climate action but often face capacity, resource, and knowledge barriers that limit implementation. This study examines which knowledge mobilization formats are preferred among Canadian municipal staff to determine how to best enact climate change by integrating survey data with semi structured interview data. Results show a strong preference for collaborative, people centred formats, such as peer to peer discussions, coaching, and interactive webinars, alongside practical, implementation ready tools including templates, worksheets, guidebooks, and repositories. Capacity constraints significantly shaped feasibility, with staff favouring flexible, low burden formats that fit limited time and capacity. Several previously undocumented formats emerged, including concierge style support, monthly calls, and resource sharing networks, extending current knowledge mobilization literature. Statistical analyses revealed no meaningful differences across municipality sizes, suggesting broadly shared learning needs. These findings highlight the importance of hybrid models, community specific tailoring, and sustained human support in strengthening municipal climate capacity and offer new directions for researchers and practitioners designing knowledge mobilization strategies.