Identifying gaps and inconsistencies in the use of relocation rhetoric: a prerequisite for sound relocation policy and planning

Abstract

Relocation from vulnerability hotspots to alternative safer locations is being increasingly proposed as one of the climate change response options. Yet, its consistent adoption in the rhetoric and more importantly policy remains elusive. This paper evaluates the extent to which different actors in policy and planning arenas consider relocation as a viable response to climate change as inferred from the extent to which relocation rhetoric permeates documents designed to inform and guide adaptation. The study examines 56 local, state, and national climate change adaptation texts to determine how many are considering and/or referring to relocation, what language they employ, and in which context. The content analysis was performed to measure the occurrence and frequency of keywords relocation, retreat, migration, and abandonment, as well as their frequency. The results show a significant inconsistency and lack of coherence in the use of relocation rhetoric among examined contemporary adaptation documents that are impeding a more comprehensive consideration and the development of relocation policy and planning. To address this barrier, the author proposes a unifying definition of the term relocation within the context of climate change.