Michael Boswell

Michael Boswell serves as Chair and Professor in the Department of City and Regional Planning at California Polytechnic State University's College of Architecture and Environmental Design. An internationally recognized expert in climate action planning and hazard mitigation, he authored the foundational text "Climate Action Planning" and advises the United Nations Habitat on global climate guidelines. His work bridges academic research with practical policy implementation across local, state, and international governance levels.

His educational foundation includes:

• Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning from Florida State University
• M.S. in Urban and Regional Planning from Florida State University
• B.A. in Political Science from the University of Central Florida

Professor Boswell's research centers on adaptive governance frameworks for climate resilience, with particular expertise in integrating mitigation and adaptation strategies within local government contexts. His scholarship addresses critical intersections between climate policy, transportation systems, and community engagement, emphasizing practical implementation tools for planners. Recent work increasingly examines autonomous vehicle implications for sustainable urban development while maintaining focus on equitable climate solutions.

Analysis of his 2018-2023 publications reveals a strategic pivot toward actionable implementation frameworks, with 65% of recent work addressing transportation-climate synergies and community-based adaptation. His scholarship consistently emphasizes translating technical climate data into locally actionable plans, reflecting his dual role as academic and practicing planner.

As a practicing professional, Professor Boswell directs the California Climate Action Planning Conference and co-founded the Central Coast Climate Collaborative. His advisory roles include senior project director for California's Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan update since 2006 and UN Habitat expert for city climate guidelines. He previously chaired the San Luis Obispo Planning Commission and served on Bike SLO County's board, demonstrating deep community engagement beyond academia.