Disaster adaptation evolution and resilience mechanisms of traditional rural settlement landscape in Xinjiang, China

Abstract

In consideration of the socioecological environment and the frequent occurrence of natural disasters, the subject of how rural settlements can respond to disturbances and achieve sustainable development is important. From the perspective of the disaster resilience of socioecological systems, this study first identified the disaster types historically faced by rural settlements in Xinjiang, China. Then, based on the evolution of these settlements, the landscape carrier was divided into four levels: the overall village pattern, street networks, central landmarks, and special public spaces. Four stages of disaster adaptation were then identified—namely, predisaster defense, disaster impact, postdisaster recovery, and adaptation. Finally, based on the experience of disaster resilience and adaptation in traditional rural settlements, the resilience mechanism of adaptation to disasters was proposed for rural communities in Xinjiang. Specifically, the universal construction of water-conservancy facilities to adapt to disasters is key for these settlements to continuously enhance resilience, with government-guided deployment providing institutional guarantees. Moreover, the wisdom gleaned from local construction experience with disaster adaptation can further strengthen rural resilience. Finally, religious cultural norms can provide a behavioral basis for residents to organize and effectively adapt to disasters.