The organized actions of people that occur within institutions impact and influence socioecological systems in both positive and negative ways. When these actions alter the environment in unfavorable ways, society and the environment are harmed. This harm leads to negative and disproportionate impacts on underrepresented groups like those of Latin communities. When institutions implement resiliency practices, this harm can be reduced, and positive impacts on the system may be realized. This research analyzed causal mechanisms within academic institutions that led to resiliency practices that were beneficial for socioecological systems. The causal mechanisms (also called events) leading to institutional resiliency practices at academic institutions were process traced using the theoretical framework of biocultural diversity and environmental literacy. According to the identified causal mechanisms, environmental actors’ integration of biocultural diversity and application of environmental literacy supported the implementation and continuation of inclusive resiliency practices. These causal mechanisms had four purposes: to exchange knowledge, to refine resiliency practices, to procure funds, and to develop external support or partners. These four types of mechanisms led to long-term engagement and partnerships from individuals outside of each institution that helped support their resiliency efforts. These findings indicate the potential to develop inclusive resiliency practices within organizations and their socioecological systems and provide a pathway forward to create professional development opportunities that support these practices. Causal mechanisms impacted by biocultural diversity and environmental literacy aided in establishing, refining, and ensuring that inclusive resiliency practices persisted.
