Assessing integrated agricultural livelihood vulnerability to climate change in the coastal region of West Bengal: Implication for spatial adaptation planning

Abstract

In Southeast Asia, the West Bengal coastal region is one of the significant hotspots of climate-induced vulnerability. This article defines vulnerability as a function of exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity. We selected 43 subcomponent indicators under nine major components for constructing the Integrated Agricultural Livelihood Vulnerability Index (IALVI). Understanding the spatial distribution of IALVI to climate change is vital to formulate proper sustainable adaptation strategies for the future. Results revealed that high to very high vulnerability in the south and southeastern coastal C.D. Blocks due to high exposure and high sensitivity and agricultural livelihood of 5.02 million people were highly vulnerable to the adverse effect of climate change. On the contrary, moderate to low vulnerability is experienced in the western and northern parts of the region due to less exposure, less sensitivity, and high adaptive capacity. This study applies geospatial techniques and examines the spatial distribution of climate change vulnerability in the coastal region of West Bengal. The most vulnerable region in this study area comprises a gentle slope, low elevation, high drainage density, and poor socio-economic conditions. Consequently, several adaptation methods, such as a better cyclone shelter, embankments, a more robust transportation and communication system, and improved healthcare facilities, may help to raise the level of adaptive capacity in the vulnerable regions. These findings will be helpful for policymakers in formulating proper climate risk mitigation strategies in coastal West Bengal. To validate the secondary results primary investigation was also done in this study.