Adaptive Strategy Research Articles

The German Status Report on Climate Change and Health 2023

Abstract The German Status Report on Climate Change and Health was coordinated by the Robert Koch Institute, Germany’s public health institute, and published in 2023 through a collaboration of approximately 100 authors from 30 German institutions. It is an update of a similar report from 2010 and includes review articles and syntheses on the effects of climate change on human health through various influences such as heat, extreme weather, UV radiation, air pollutants and allergens, as well as the effect of climate change on infectious diseases through vector-borne, water-borne or food-borne pathogens. Literature reviews on the potential impact on antimicrobial resistance and mental health explore less well researched effects of climate change on health. The report discusses climate change communication and climate justice as cross-cutting issues and closes with an analysis of the options for action recommended throughout the preceding chapters. While the coordination of this report was funded by the German Federal Ministry of Health, the content was compiled by an advisory board of scientists and the authors recruited by them. The status report is published as 14 individual scientific papers in three issues of the peer-reviewed Journal of Health Monitoring and is available open access in English and in German in order to reach a large scientific audience. Besides the scientific audience, another target group are local authorities contributing towards adaptation and mitigation measures. Insights from the report are being communicated by diverse channels specifically to this latter group and are taken into consideration in the process of shaping the German Strategy for Adaptation to Climate Change.

Cross-Cultural Communication Strategies of the Thai Advertising Industry and Their Implications for the International Communication of Chinese Advertising

Based on the theory of cultural adaptation, this paper explores the cross-cultural communication strategies and successes of Thailand’s advertising industry, analyzing their implications for China’s international advertising efforts. Through case studies and empirical analysis, the paper identifies key cross-cultural strategies in Thailand’s advertising industry, such as language adaptation, symbol interpretation, and cultural element integration, which effectively enhance advertising impact and audience acceptance. The study suggests that China’s advertising industry should draw from Thailand’s successes by aligning with target market cultural characteristics while maintaining Chinese cultural identity, achieving a balance of localization and internationalization. The paper also provides specific strategies for China’s advertising industry to enhance its cultural adaptation capabilities, addressing the challenges posed by globalization. The research aims to offer theoretical support and practical guidance for cultural adaptation strategies in China’s international advertising.

Exploring Climate Health Risks and Adaptations among Vulnerable Populations in Israel’s Negev Desert

Abstract Background Climate change represents the paramount challenge to global health, disproportionately impacting particular vulnerable individuals and communities. By identifying and elucidating disparities in health-related climate risks among these groups, we can facilitate the development of appropriate and equitable climate adaptation strategies. This research identified climate-related risks, health perceptions and needs, and behaviors among Jewish and Bedouin populations in the Negev Desert, a region highly susceptible to climate change, located at the intersection of geographical and social marginality. Methods Ten focus groups (n = 69) among vulnerable Jewish and Bedouin residents were conducted and systematically analyzed to identify disparities in health-related climate risks and behaviors. Vulnerabilities were defined based on income, age, health status, living environment, and outdoor activities. Results The findings highlight both shared and distinct difficulties and barriers vulnerable Jewish and Bedouin Negev residents face in the context of climate-related health risks. Key themes that emerged address: a) the direct and indirect impacts of climate-related events on health and well-being; b) the exacerbation of climate-related health risks by existing vulnerabilities and systemic barriers; c) the pivotal role of community resources in coping strategies; and d) lack of trust in the state and its institutions which underpin climate-related experiences. Conclusions The complexity of coping with climate change encompasses individual, community, and national/institutional levels. Vulnerable populations’ experiences with climate change are impacted by factors such as poverty, social marginality, violence, and barriers to accessing healthcare and other services, and is not a standalone phenomenon. Therefore, climate change adaptation and mitigation cannot be distinguished from other challenges impacting the health and well-being of populations. Key messages • Climate adaptation efforts must integrate with broader social and health strategies to effectively support vulnerable groups. • Community resources and trust in institutions are crucial for vulnerable populations facing climate change impacts.

Evaluating Factors Affecting Flood Susceptibility in the Yangtze River Delta Using Machine Learning Methods

AbstractFloods are widespread and dangerous natural hazards worldwide. It is essential to grasp the causes of floods to mitigate their severe effects on people and society. The key drivers of flood susceptibility in rapidly urbanizing areas can vary depending on the specific context and require further investigation. This research developed an index system comprising 10 indicators associated with factors and environments that lead to disasters, and used machine learning methods to assess flood susceptibility. The core urban area of the Yangtze River Delta served as a case study. Four scenarios depicting separate and combined effects of climate change and human activity were evaluated using data from various periods, to measure the spatial variability in flood susceptibility. The findings demonstrate that the extreme gradient boosting model outperformed the decision tree, support vector machine, and stacked models in evaluating flood susceptibility. Both climate change and human activity were found to act as catalysts for flooding in the region. Areas with increasing susceptibility were mainly distributed to the northwest and southeast of Taihu Lake. Areas with increased flood susceptibility caused by climate change were significantly larger than those caused by human activity, indicating that climate change was the dominant factor influencing flood susceptibility in the region. By comparing the relationship between the indicators and flood susceptibility, the rising intensity and frequency of extreme precipitation as well as an increase in impervious surface areas were identified as important reasons of heightened flood susceptibility in the Yangtze River Delta region. This study emphasized the significance of formulating adaptive strategies to enhance flood control capabilities to cope with the changing environment.

Comparative genomic analysis of two putative novel Idiomarina species from hypersaline miocene deposits

BackgroundHypersaline habitats, as extreme environments, are a great source of well-adapted organisms with unique properties as they have evolved various strategies to cope with these extreme conditions. Bioinformatics and genomic mining may shed light on evolutionary relationships among them. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the biodiversity and especially the strategies evolved within the Idiomarina genus, with the primary focus on the taxonomy and genomic adaptations of two novel strains affiliated with Idiomarina genus isolated from unique environment – brines of two Early Miocene salt deposits.ResultsBoth analyzed species belonged to the Idiomarina loihiensis cluster with similarity levels of 16S rRNA gene sequences as high as 99.5% and showed a significant genome size reduction, known characteristic of Idiomarina genomes, though within the genome of Sol25 strain the lowest extent of the carbohydrate utilization genes reduction was observed t among the Idiomarina species. Moreover, the comparative genome analyses indicated that despite both strains being isolated from geographically and geologically similar environments (brines from at least 12 Ma), the species showed higher relatedness to other Idiomarina species than to each other.ConclusionThe present findings highlighted the importance of genomic data in resolving taxonomic uncertainties and understanding of adaptation strategies of extremophiles. Geographic isolation likely contributed to population divergence of the Idiomarina genus, and the recent study offered insights into biogeographic patterns and allopatric speciation of this bacterial group.

Plastid phylogenomics of Robinsonia (Senecioneae; Asteraceae), endemic to the Juan Fernández Islands: insights into structural organization and molecular evolution

BackgroundThe genus Robinsonia DC. (tribe Senecioneae, Asteraceae) endemic to the Juan Fernández Islands in Chile is one of the most conspicuous insular plant groups in the world. Unlike typical herbaceous Asteraceae plants, these plants demonstrate spectacular and unusual rosette tree growth forms as shown by the alpine giant senecios (genus Dendrosenecio, tribe Senecioneae) endemic to the East African mountains. However, monophyly of the genus and phylogenetic relationships among species of Robinsonia as well as their plastome evolution remain elusive. This study aims to explore their phylogeny, species diversification, and molecular evolution based on the complete plastome sequences in the context of adaptive radiation on oceanic islands.ResultsThe insular Robinsonia plastomes are highly conserved in their structures and organization of contents. Five divergence hotspots as potential chloroplast markers and five positively selected coding genes (accD, ndhF, rpoA, ycf1, and ycf2) are identified. Robinsonia plastomes has an overall nucleotide diversity higher than that of the sky island Dendrosenecio, but much lower than herbaceous Senecio. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrates the monophyly of Robinsonia and identifies two major infrageneric lineages. Both Robinsonia and Dendrosenecio are deeply nested within large genus Senecio.ConclusionsWhile plastid genomes of Robinsonia are highly conserved, their sequences strongly demonstrated the monophyly of the genus and inferred robust interspecific relationships, including herbaceous Senecio and woody Dendrosenecio. Different sets of positively selected chloroplast genes, five for Robinsonia and two for Dendrosenecio, may play an important role in the adaptation strategies of these fascinating woody species in insular and continental sky island habitats. Overall phylogenetic positions and sister lineages of Robinsonia and Dendrosenecio require additional study based on broader sampling of Senecio.

Climate change health challenges – a study on heat health-related adaption measures in Germany

Abstract Problem Increasing extreme heat events of summer 2003, 2010 and 2015 induced a rising impact on heat health morbidity and mortality in Germany. A considerable proportion of urban population is affected by thermal discomfort due to the urban heat island burden during summer, particularly vulnerable people at risk. Concerted action to develop appropriate heat health adaptation measures is needed. Description As part of the National Adaptation Strategy to Climate Change an expert working group published ‘Recommendations for Action for the Preparation of Heat Action Plans’ for Germany in 2017. A first country-wide project had been conducted between 2019 and 2023 which investigated the status and impact of current or planned Heat Health Action Plans (HHAP), and adaptation measures appropriate to protect and prevent human health. As part of this project an online survey was conducted in May/June 2020 on the awareness and degree of use of the 2017 recommendations and the development and implementation of HHAP. Results This survey had been carried out to assess the current state of affairs as well as factors of success and barriers in the development and implementation of HHAP, with a particular focus on municipal environment and health administrations. In total 116 questionnaires had been responded, mainly by participants from the environment sector (53%), and 32% from the public health sector. More than half of the respondents indicated to be aware of the recommendations (very well-known at the federal state level: 90%, at county level known by 43%), which were identified as very helpful by 81%. Respondents from large cities (> 100 000 inhabitants) were main contributors to the study (41 of 81 large cities replied; 34 rural counties responded). Key messages • The 2017 recommendations had been identified and used to start with HHAP. • Decision makers should develop structures for regulations that anchor HHAP as a nationwide instrument to be established timely.

2.I. Scientific session: Addressing vaccine hesitancy: from understanding determinants to implementing targeted strategies

Abstract Supported by NextGenerationEU (no. PE00000007) and EU4Health (VAXaction), the workshop will present a pan-European perspective on vaccine hesitancy and the effectiveness of counteracting interventions, especially when facing potentially pandemic infectious threats. Analysing human responses to epidemics is crucial to improve mathematical disease modelling and develop strategies to monitor behaviours during outbreaks, including assessing levels of vaccine hesitancy. This session will explore the multifaceted issue of vaccine hesitancy, which remains a significant barrier to achieving optimal vaccination coverage and is identified as one of the top threats to global health. By integrating theoretical frameworks with practical applications, the workshop aims to present a comprehensive overview of strategies employed to mitigate hesitancy across various demographics and regions. The first presentation will cover a thorough overview of the strategies employed to counteract vaccine hesitancy, leveraging existing infrastructure, health promotion policies, and educational initiatives. It will also explore the role of digital health tools and regulatory measures, such as health passes and nudging techniques, in enhancing vaccination uptake. Furthermore, the session will cover a systematic review of immunisation information systems (IISs) and the proposal of an innovative unvaccinated registry. This part of the workshop will delve into technological advancements and the integration of behavioural insights, which are essential for enhancing vaccine coverage and informing public health strategies. Another significant aspect of the discussion will be the evolution of vaccine mandates, from their historical roots to their contemporary applications. This discussion will reflect on policy shifts necessitated by emerging public health challenges and the need for adaptable strategies that can respond effectively to fluctuating vaccine coverage and acceptance rates. Panel discussions will feature notable experts such as Prof. Carlo Signorelli, President of the Italian NITAG, and Prof. Maria Ganczak, Vice President of the EUPHA Infectious Diseases Control section. These discussions will provide a comparative analysis of vaccination policies across different European countries, highlighting diverse approaches to mandates and the implementation of public health interventions aimed at combating vaccine hesitancy. By providing a unified approach to understanding and combating vaccine hesitancy, we aim to facilitate a critical exchange of ideas and strategies among experts in the field. It will serve as a dynamic platform for discussing evidence-based interventions tailored to specific population needs, enhancing public health outcomes across Europe. This engaging session promises to offer valuable insights into the complexities of vaccine hesitancy and the collaborative efforts required to address this global health challenge effectively. Key messages • Enhanced data collection and analysis are essential to combat vaccine hesitancy, allowing for tailored interventions that address specific community needs and barriers to vaccination. • Effective strategies against vaccine hesitancy require historical understanding and flexibility to adapt to new challenges, ensuring public health policies are responsive and culturally sensitive.

Assessing the current health effects of climate change in the Netherlands

Abstract The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) has assessed the current effects of climate change on health as part of a national sector-wide process towards updating the Dutch National Adaptation Strategy. Besides health, this process includes assessing the risks of climate change for water management, agriculture, the built environment, nature and other sectors. It will provide a basis for policy, for prioritising the most urgent risks and for long-term risk monitoring. Six climate-related health topics were assessed for this update: heat, air quality, mental health, UV radiation, pollen allergies and infectious diseases. To allow comparison of the impact and likelihood of the climate-related risks across sectors, a format for factsheets on climate risks had been provided. Following this format, for each climate-related health topic we considered the climate threat, secondary effects, exposure, vulnerability, adaptive capacity, impact and cascading effects. The magnitude of the health impacts was categorised per topic as low (< 10,000 people affected; 0 - 10 seriously injured/dead), medium (10,000 - 100,000 people affected; 10 - 100 seriously injured/dead) or high (>100,000 people affected; >100 seriously injured/dead). The likelihood of these impacts was then described as well as possible black swan events or tipping points. Finally, the policy context was outlined, including possible maladaptation, lock-ins, and equity aspects, followed by quality assurance considerations. For all topics, negative health impacts are already occurring. However, the magnitude of the impacts cannot yet be accurately quantified. In this presentation, we will discuss the results of this assessment and explore the pros and cons of being part of a sector-wide process.

Movement matters: uncovering life-course similarities and differences in residential environment perspectives

Neighbourhoods play a crucial role in residents’ everyday lives. People become attached to neighbourhood attributes throughout their lives and various activities performed within residential environments. Everyday time-space mobility routines actively impact how residents connect with their neighbourhoods. This paper aims to analyse residents’ links with their residential surroundings arising from their everyday spatial behaviours. It examines the topic in two dynamically transforming neighbourhood types in the Prague Metropolitan Area and from the perspectives of two population groups: older children from the suburbs and older adults from the gentrifying inner city. The study adopted qualitative data analysis using semi-structured interviews. Both groups fulfil neighbourhood attachments through various obligatory and optional movement types as well as accompanying social ties that constitute an important part of such moves. The neighbourhood links achieved through movement are shaped by complex mechanisms that occur at various spatial and temporal scales adding to the variety of functional and affective meanings of everyday mobility practices. They emerge along life-course shifts of individuals, changes in the neighbourhoods and activities happening within these spatial contexts. Residents then use numerous adaptive strategies to adjust their movements (and in turn their links with the neighbourhoods) to the combined effects of those conditions.

Exploring Savico’s journey: dynamic capabilities and Industry 4.0 integration in organisation–industry actor relationships

PurposeThe purpose of the study is to enhance the extant empirical and conceptual understanding of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) adoption and its repercussions for an organisation operating in an emerging economy, considering the dynamic capabilities framework. The study investigates (1) the potential impact of the I4.0 phenomenon on relationships between organisations and industry actors, (2) the existing effects of I4.0 on these relationships and (3) the necessary measures for organisations to unlock the full potential of I4.0 in order to enhance and reinforce these relationships.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative method was used. Semi-structured, open-ended face-to-face and online interviews were conducted with 18 directors, managers and chief executive officers (CEOs) of Savico, a leading Vietnamese car dealership.FindingsThe analysis revealed various dimensions highlighting impacts on organisation–industry actor relationships. For instance, the “enhancing internal/external operations” dimension highlights the significance of benefitting the company’s close stakeholders through a centralised management system or more advanced functions, while the empowering-nimble outcomes dimension underlines the benefits of I4.0 in enabling performance-based choices and staff empowerment.Practical implicationsTechnological phenomena such as the I4.0 regime require constant adaptive strategies, including knowledge acquisition and talent development. Thus, the study has implications for industry stakeholders, including companies, educational institutions and government agencies.Originality/valueThe study’s key value lies in proposing a model that provides conceptual depth into organisation–industry actor relationships. Furthermore, both the analysis and the model can guide researchers in future attempts to examine dynamic capabilities among firms operating in emerging economies, with important practical and theoretical implications.

Human Health Adaptation Strategies to Climate-Induced Extreme Weather Events: A Systematic Review

This systematic review evaluates the health impacts of climate-induced extreme weather events and the effectiveness of various adaptation strategies. Seventeen studies were analyzed, focusing on adaptation measures such as agricultural adjustments, renewable energy, ecosystem restoration, infrastructure redesign, and public health interventions. Significant health impacts were identified, including increased morbidity and mortality due to heatwaves, floods, and vector-borne diseases. The success of adaptation strategies was found to be highly dependent on local context, implementation capacity, and sustainability. This review underscores gaps in data quality, the generalizability of findings, and the integration of adaptation measures into public health policies. An urgent need exists for interdisciplinary approaches and community engagement to ensure sustainable, equitable health outcomes in the face of climate change. Future research should focus on these areas to strengthen public health resilience.

The influence of external factors on corporate strategy and strategies for adaptation in light of the global challenges

This study investigates the influence of external factors on corporate strategy and explores strategies for adaptation in the face of global challenges. The primary objective is to analyze how various external variables including economic conditions, technological advancements, regulatory shifts, and socio-cultural changes affect corporate decision-making and strategic planning. Utilizing a quantitative research methodology, the study involved a structured survey distributed to a sample of 116 corporate executives across diverse industries, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of the data collected. Statistical techniques were employed to identify correlations between the external factors and the strategic adaptations implemented by organizations. The findings reveal that economic fluctuations and rapid technological innovations are the most significant external influences on corporate strategies. Companies that proactively respond to these changes tend to exhibit greater resilience, enhanced market competitiveness, and improved long-term sustainability. The research underscores that organizations that incorporate external insights into their strategic planning are more capable of developing effective responses to evolving challenges. To address these findings, the study offers several recommendations: organizations should enhance their agility by investing in thorough market research and establishing flexible strategic frameworks that can swiftly adapt to external changes. Furthermore, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous learning within the organization is crucial for navigating the complexities of global challenges effectively. By embracing these adaptive strategies, companies not only prepare themselves to confront immediate challenges but also position themselves favorably for future opportunities in a rapidly changing environment. Ultimately, this research contributes valuable insights to the literature on corporate strategy, emphasizing the necessity of understanding external dynamics and implementing adaptive strategies for organizational success in today’s competitive landscape. The study provides a foundation for further exploration into how organizations can strategically navigate external influences while maintaining agility and responsiveness in their operations.

Integrating Resource-Based Theory and Contingency Theory for Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience in Malaysia: A Post-Pandemic Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted global supply chains, exposed their vulnerabilities and underscored the urgent need for enhanced resilience. In Malaysia, the pandemic's impact on supply chains has been profound, prompting a re-evaluation of existing strategies and frameworks. This study explores the integration of Resource-Based Theory (RBT) and Contingency Theory (CT) to enhance supply chain resilience in Malaysia. Through in-depth case studies and semi-structured interviews with senior managers and supply chain professionals, this research identifies key factors contributing to the successful implementation of an integrated resilience framework. The findings reveal that firms leveraging advanced technology, skilled workforce, and strategic partnerships can maintain operational efficiency and adaptability. Context-specific strategies such as diversifying suppliers, local sourcing, strategic stockpiling, and flexible logistics solutions are essential in responding to disruptions. Common challenges include high initial costs, coordination issues, regulatory hurdles, and cultural resistance to change. The integration of RBT and CT results in improved supply chain visibility, flexibility, robustness, and stakeholder collaboration. This study contributes to the academic discourse by offering practical insights for firms seeking to enhance supply chain resilience. It underscores the importance of combining internal strengths with adaptive strategies tailored to the external environment. The findings provide valuable guidance for both academia and industry in developing more robust and adaptive supply chain strategies in the post-pandemic landscape. Future research should explore the integration of RBT and CT across different contexts and industries and investigate the role of emerging technologies in enhancing supply chain resilience.

Financial Impact on Aviation Industry Before and During Covid-19: Passenger Demand as Moderator

This study analyses the impact of the pandemic on the financial performance of airlines, with a specific focus on financial ratios. The travel limitations imposed as a result of the pandemic, coupled with a significant decline in passenger demand, resulted in significant financial losses. This study investigates how passenger demand moderates the relationship between financial ratios and the performance of the aviation industry. This study gathered data from 20 premier Asian airline companies, as acknowledged by Skytrax. The data was collected from 2016 to 2022, with the timeframe from 2016 to 2019 designated as the 'pre-Covid19' period, and the timeframe from 2020 to 2022 designated as the 'during Covid19' period. The study uses static panel data analysis to accomplish its objective by integrating cross-sectional and time series analysis. Based on this analysis, it was determined that the company's financial condition had a substantial impact on its performance and operating worth before the COVID-19 outbreak. This influence was observed across all variables, except TATO (Total Assets Turnover). However, the company’s financial condition does not affect its performance during the COVID-19 outbreak. This is due to the implementation of government initiatives and bailouts offered some respite, while also underscoring pre-existing structural weaknesses within the business. The results emphasize the crucial requirement for airlines to implement adaptable financial strategies and strong risk management techniques to successfully navigate future disruptions. Hence, the aviation sector should embrace a comprehensive strategy centered on minimizing expenses, expanding income sources, and implementing digitalization.

Does Strategy Formulation Process Matter on Human Resource Strategy Outcome?

This article explores the way in which human resource strategies come into being. Using modes of strategy formulation process three hypotheses are established. A cross-sectional research design was adopted. Data was collected using Structure questionnaires while multiple regression analysis was performed to test for a number of hypothesized relationships. Findings shows that rational and adaptive human resource strategy formulation processes explain significant variation in human resource strategy outcome while interactive human resource strategy has no significant relationship with human resource strategy outcome. The contribution of this study to knowledge is that HR strategy formulation process that involves inputs from multiple stake holders has a significant effect on strategy outcome of human resource strategies hence a source of competitive advantage. More importantly, this article found that there is a problem of inability to formulate human resource strategies in the public sector. Therefore the study recommends that State corporations should adopt interactive HR strategy formulation process to facilitate formulation and implementation of HR strategies in their organizations.

Adopting Digital Tools in Higher Education: Opportunities, Challenges and Theoretical Insights

ABSTRACTThe digital transformation of higher education, driven by technological advancements and evolving societal needs, presents both significant opportunities and critical challenges. This study integrates the technology acceptance model (TAM), diffusion of innovations (DOI), comprehensive literature review, in‐depth case studies and empirical survey data to explore these dynamics. The findings reveal the potential of digital technologies—such as online platforms, adaptive learning tools and immersive technologies—to expand access, personalise learning and foster collaboration. However, the research also identifies major barriers, including the digital divide, faculty resistance and data privacy concerns. By combining qualitative thematic analysis and quantitative statistical analysis, this study underscores the importance of strategic planning, inclusive policies and ongoing professional development in maximising the benefits of digital education. The paper contributes to the field by offering actionable insights, theoretical implications and practical recommendations for institutions to implement adaptive pedagogical strategies, ensure equitable access to technology and build robust, secure digital learning environments.

Impacts of Harvest Year and Cultivation Location on Off-Flavor Compounds and Functionality of Pea Protein Isolate.

The impact of four different harvest years and two cultivation locations (CLs) of pea seeds on their protein wet fractionation yield, volatile and non-volatile beany flavors, and functionality were investigated. Both harvest years and CLs significantly affected protein recovery, but protein purity was primarily influenced by CLs. Seed age emerged as a dominant factor causing the reduction in linolenic/linoleic acid content and lipoxygenase (LOX) activity which surpassed the effect of harvest years in the seeds but not in their proteins. CL significantly affected fatty acid composition in both seeds and proteins, whereas its effect on LOX activity was discernible only in the proteins. Volatile beany compounds in the proteins were affected by both harvest years and CLs, correlating with their polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content and LOX activity. Both factors minimally impacted the emulsification capacity of the proteins but imposed a significant effect on their rheological properties. Altogether, the results revealed that seed crop years and especially locations affect pea protein quality, calling for proper adaptation strategies.

Research on the Green Construction Technology of Stilt Houses Based on the Climate Adaptation of Transitional Seasons

Stilt houses are extremely adaptable to terrain and climate. However, current indoor thermal environment research in transitional seasons is not prominent. Therefore, in this research, a typical stilt house in southwest China was chosen as the research object and analyzed by combining Climate Consultant climate analysis software and field measurement data. The results showed that the indoor thermal stability of a stilt house was excellent during the transition season, and the attic had the most obvious climate regulation, with the maximum temperature difference between indoors and outdoors being 9 °C when the outdoor temperature was the highest. The difference between the mean radiant temperature and the average air temperature was only 0.04 °C, and the radiant effect of the enclosure on the interior was small. The indoor relative humidity ranged from 63.2% to 85.1%, showing high relative humidity, but the fluctuation was relatively stable. Stilt floors did not play a significant role in climate regulation during the transition season, and the semi-open space structure was more prone to moisture accumulation when the outdoor humidity was high. Regarding practical application, the climate adaptation strategies of shading, cooling, and dehumidification were applied in the transition season, but dehumidification was ineffective.

Climate Risk Management among Smallholder Farmers: A Comparative Analysis of Flood-prone Alappuzha and Drought-affected Gondia in India

Climate change poses significant risks to agricultural systems worldwide, particularly in developing countries where smallholder farmers have limited adaptive capacity. This study examines the socioeconomic and demographic factors influencing climate risk management practices among smallholder farmers in two contrasting regions of India: the flood-prone Alappuzha district in Kerala and the drought-affected Gondia district in Maharashtra. Using data collected from 150 rice farmers, the research analyzes economic, social, technical, and physical dimensions shaping adaptive responses. Key findings reveal significant regional disparities in adaptive strategies. Alappuzha farmers exhibit greater resilience due to higher incomes, better compensation mechanisms, and stronger community networks. Their strategies primarily involve strengthening bunds, improving drainage infrastructure, adopting flood-resistant rice varieties, and relying on formal credit for support. Conversely, Gondia farmers face lower adaptive capacity, driven by limited access to credit, inadequate compensation, and weaker institutional support. Their climate risk management approaches include drip irrigation, planting drought-resistant crop varieties, and pursuing income diversification to reduce vulnerability. Education levels, access to insurance, and the use of localized weather information also play crucial roles in shaping adaptive capacity across both regions. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to strengthen institutional support, expand educational programs, facilitate community networks, and improve access to localized weather information to enhance agricultural resilience to climate risks. These findings provide practical policy recommendations aimed at addressing region-specific challenges and leveraging local strengths to bolster adaptive capacity.