Unpacking intermunicipal climate adaptation networks in Arctic Norway

Purpose This study aims to examine how intermunicipal networks support climate change adaptation (CCA) in Arctic Norway, where municipalities face limited capacity alongside accelerating climate change. It explores how network activities contribute to adaptation efforts and identifies structural barriers that constrain their effectiveness. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on survey data and a boundary-spanning framework, this study thematically categorizes network activities across four dimensions: organizational form, adaptation focus, risk type and priority level. Geographic mapping of the networks is used to identify regional patterns of collaboration. Findings Eighteen intermunicipal networks are identified, operating among 33 of the 39 municipalities. Network density analysis indicates low overall connectivity, suggesting that such collaborative arrangements remain relatively uncommon. The networks exhibit strong regional clustering, with CCA often serving as a secondary objective within networks primarily focused on spatial planning and risk management. Participation is largely homogeneous, which limits boundary spanning. The findings further suggest that national legislation reinforces path dependencies, steering municipal collaboration towards compliance-oriented and siloed approaches. Practical implications The findings underscore the need for diverse and inclusive forms of intermunicipal cooperation that enable experimentation, cross-sector dialogue and long-term strategic planning. Such approaches can help municipalities move beyond the narrow regulatory agenda and strengthen collective adaptive capacity. Originality/value This study provides new insights into how intermunicipal networks shape CCA in Arctic Norway. By applying a boundary-spanning lens, it highlights both the adaptive focus and the limitations of existing arrangements, emphasizing the need to reconsider collaborative approaches that can support more transformative climate adaptive responses.