Ecosystem-based Adaptation Research Articles

Ecosystem-based adaptation strategies to multi-hazard risk reduction and policy implications in the Pearl River and Yangtze River deltas, China

Ecosystem-based adaptation strategies to multi-hazard risk reduction and policy implications in the Pearl River and Yangtze River deltas, China

Urban Landscape Resilience: Reconnecting the River with Al-Kut’s Traditional City Centre

The importance of this study is due to its direct interest in the river bank of the Kut city centre and its concern for reconnecting its traditional part with the basic functions of the entire city. Here, the resilience of the Iraqi city of Kut can be enhanced and its viability increased. The aim of the study is to establish a comprehensive framework for the study of the various cultural and historical aspects of the study area with a view to reconnecting the city with its river. The research here focuses on the importance of the principle of urban resilience in urban design, and these activities include attention to open spaces and linking them to motor hubs to increase their urban resilience. Furthermore, it is imperative to prioritise pedestrian and bicycle traffic in public areas, while also ensuring the preservation of the city's historical aspects as tourist attractions. Additionally, residents should be provided with optimal comfort and safety. The study suggests using a shared stakeholder strategy to address the many challenges in the investigated region. By integrating the principles of ecosystem-based adaptation and social equity, a resilient urban environment can be created that can withstand future shocks and pressures. The research implies that the city's historic status and citizens' quality of life are poor so that the situation can be rectified and the river's relevance highlighted. Strategies can be established and enhanced to adapt to the riverside and preserve it for future generations in a more flexible and sustainable manner.

From Perception to Practices: Adoption of Ecosystem-Based Adaptation in Vietnam Upland Areas—A Case Study in Thua Thien Hue Province

In the context of increasing interest in ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA), there remains a paucity of discussion regarding the transition from perception to practice in aiding farmer households to adapt to climate change (CC) while maintaining the provision of essential ecosystem services. Thus, this study aims to explore policymakers’ and local people’s perceptions, from thinking about the implementation of EbA strategies to responding to CC in current and future agricultural production and forestry in upland Thua Thien Hue province, Vietnam. This study has adopted the Model of Private Proactive Adaptation to CC to investigate the perceptions of EbA among various administrative and household levels through in-depth interviews and focus group discussion methods. Our findings indicate a significant relationship between the perceptions and understanding of EbA among policymakers and farmer households, and the adoption of EbA practices. Many EbA practices are already well-established and have demonstrated their ability to enhance ecosystem services provision, adaptation benefits, and livelihood and food security. These benefits are crucial for helping farmer households to adapt to CC. However, current financial, technical, and market constraints hinder the broader adoption of these practices. Therefore, to increase adaptive capacity to CC and upscale EbA practices, EbA interventions must consider technical, financial, and market aspects. Furthermore, it is essential to provide evidence from both scientific and practical perspectives and disseminate information on EbA practices to encourage broader adoption by local farmers. In addition, supportive policies from various departmental and agency levels are necessary for managers in the agricultural and forest sectors as well as households to recognize EbA as a vital strategy for developing agriculture and forestry in a manner that is sustainable and resilient to CC.

Coastal Socio-Ecological Systems Adapting to Climate Change: A Global Overview

A systematic literature review was conducted on papers studying coastal socio-ecological systems (SESs) in adapting to climate change to support sustainable coastal management and contribute to achieving the UN SDGs. We selected, analyzed, and synthesized 173 peer-reviewed, English-language scientific publications using the PRISMA method. Firstly, we summarized and compared the selected literature; then, we explored its geographical distribution and respective coastal landscapes, and we identified and classified the adaptation strategies focused on different coastal landscapes. Furthermore, we processed the results obtained to develop a unique conceptual model based upon the DPSIR framework for coastal SESs adapting to climate change. This review shows a gradual increase in the number of published papers, particularly after the Paris Agreement, with an uneven distribution across the world. The number of papers and case studies was lower in highly vulnerable coastal areas, with the exception of Bangladesh. Most of the literature presented a local perspective rather than a national or transnational one, focusing more on vulnerability assessment than adaptation strategies. Recent studies have shown an increasing focus on ecosystem-based adaptation. Institutional and financial support are reported as the main constraints on ensuring long-term monitoring and beneficial impacts.

Why ecosystem-based adaptation and gender justice go hand in hand

Why ecosystem-based adaptation and gender justice go hand in hand

Geospatial Mapping and Meteorological Flood Risk Assessment: A Global Research Trend Analysis.

Flooding is a global threat causing significant economic and environmental damage, necessitating a policy response and collaborative strategy. This study assessed global research trends and advances in geospatial and meteorological flood risk assessment (G_MFRA), considering the ongoing debate on flood risk management and adaptation strategies. A total of 1872 original articles were downloaded in BibTex format using the Web of Science (WOS) and Scopus databases to retrieve G_MFRA studies published from 1985 to 2023. The annual growth rate of 15.48% implies that the field of G_MFRA has been increasing over time during the study period. The analysis of global trends in flood risk research and practice highlights the key themes, methodologies, and emerging directions. There exists a notable gap in data and methodologies for flood risk assessment studies between developed and developing countries, particularly in Africa and South America, highlighting the urgency of coordinated research efforts and cohesive policy actions. The challenges identified in the body of extant literature include technical expertise, complex communication networks, and resource constraints associated with the application gaps of the study methodologies. This study advocates for a holistic research approach to flood disaster management through ecosystem-based adaptation that underpins the Sustainable Development Goals to develop innovative flood techniques and models with the potential to influence global decision-making in the G_MFRA domain. Addressing these global challenges requires a networked partnership between the research community, institutions, and countries.

A Framework for Monitoring the Effectiveness of Ecosystem-Based Adaptation Strategies Using Internet of Things and Machine Learning Techniques

Climate change poses a threat to the global ecosystem. Many countries adopt various approaches, including ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA), to address this problem. However, the assessment of the effectiveness of the EbA interventions is conducted manually, is resource-intensive, and is focused on short-term outputs. These limitations underscore a critical gap: the need for a comprehensive, automated system that enables long-term monitoring and predictive analysis. This study aimed to address this gap by developing an innovative framework that integrates Internet of Things (IoT) devices and machine learning (ML) algorithms to continuously monitor weather, hydrological, environmental, and other variables. We conducted a thorough analysis to design an appropriate framework. In addition, to obtain the relevant information and data, we conducted interviews with the local community and collected secondary data from various sources. The proposed framework consists of five layers: (i) EbA interventions; (ii) IoT-based key performance indicators (KPI) for monitoring and evaluation (M&E); (iii) primary data collection; (iv) data storage; and (v) application. As a proof of concept, we developed a system that supports early flood and drought alerts while simultaneously providing long-term evaluations of the effectiveness of EbA strategies. The developed system consists of IoT devices and a web application integrated with machine learning (ML). We set up and tested the IoT devices before deploying them in the study area. The devices capture data for two primary purposes: (1) short-term: flood detection and alerting, and (2) long-term: drought prediction and evaluation of EbA effectiveness through continuous data analysis. This research represents a significant advancement in the automation and long-term assessment of climate adaptation measures, offering a scalable and effective solution to disaster risk reduction.

Sea Level Rise and Coastal Erosion in Miami

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the sea level rise and coastal erosion in Miami. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Sea level rise and coastal erosion in Miami are growing environmental concerns due to the city's low elevation and proximity to the ocean. Studies have shown that rising sea levels, driven by climate change, are accelerating the erosion of Miami's coastline, threatening infrastructure, homes, and ecosystems. The increased frequency of tidal flooding and storm surges exacerbates the problem, making coastal areas more vulnerable. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Resilience theory, social vulnerability theory, ecosystem-based adaptation (EBA) Theory may be used to anchor future studies on sea level rise and coastal erosion in Miami. Implement local ICZM strategies that involve stakeholders in decision-making processes, ensuring that community needs are met while enhancing coastal resilience. Advocate for policies that support adaptive management practices and funding for local ICZM initiatives.

Climate change (Mal)adaptation in the Bangladesh’ Sundarbans – a Systematic Review

Bangladesh is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change. This vulnerability stems not only from its exposure to climate change and intensified extreme weather events but also from the way adaptation policies and projects have been designed using a technocratic, top-down approach. As a result, much of the adaptation has led to negative consequences for certain groups—often the most vulnerable—who depend directly on nature for their livelihoods. This outcome, known as maladaptation, has been particularly pronounced. This paper conducts a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature since 2014, the year when maladaptation first gained significant attention in the IPCC’s fifth report. The goal is to assess the current state of research on climate change adaptation in Southwestern coastal Bangladesh, particularly around the Sundarbans, the largest contiguous mangrove forest in the world. The review aims to identify research gaps and discuss key lessons learned. Keywords used in the review include 'maladaptation', 'barriers to adaptation', 'ecosystem-based adaptation', and 'gender', as these concepts are all interrelated to some degree. The review highlights significant research gaps across all topics, as well as a geographical imbalance in the distribution of studies within the region. Given the prevalence of maladaptation in Bangladesh, it is crucial that more research focuses on this issue to gather insights and reduce the risk of maladaptation in future climate change adaptation projects in the country.

Controlling soil erosion and landslides through ecosystem-based adaptation interventions in the hilly landscape of western Rwanda

Ecosystem-based Adaptation interventions such as protective vegetation, soil and water conservation measures and re-vegetation of degraded land have shown promise in reducing soil erosion and landslides occurrence. The western province of Rwanda has experienced destructive natural hazards especially soil erosions, floods and landslides. This study aimed to assess the contribution of Ecosystem-based Adaptation interventions on the reduction of soil erosion and landslides in the hilly landscape of Western Rwanda with a case study of Rubyiro sub-catchment in Rusizi District. Methods used in data collection comprised remote sensing techniques combined with a questionnaire survey to collect perceptions of farmers conducting agricultural activities in the catchment where Rusizi District has implemented Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) interventions. The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model combined with Geographic Information System (GIS) and remote sensing tools were used to assess soil loss pre- and post-EbA interventions. The results of the survey indicated that after four years of EbA interventions, the number of landslide occurrences was reduced at a rate of 62.6 %. The respondents who appreciated forest restoration to minimize landslides were 72.4 %, progressive terraces 26.1 % and bench terraces 1.5 %. The estimated average annual soil losses were 11.9 tons/ha/year, 17.6 tons/ha/year, 10.1 tons/ha/year, 9.3 tons/ha/year in 2017, 2018, 2021 and 2022, respectively. This indicates a reduction of 8.3 tons/ha/year from 2018 to 2022 as opposed to an increase of 5.7 tons/ha/year recorded from 2017 to 2018. Thus, EbA interventions made a great contribution to the reduction of soil erosion and landslides in the Rubyiro sub-catchment, and they can be recommended in other similar hilly landscapes.

Value for Money Modeling for Scaling up Nature-Based Solutions for Improving Integrated Water Resources Management and Enhanced Water Security in Pakistan

This paper is about the Value for Money (VfM) analysis conducted for the Water Resource Accountability (WRAP) Project, which comprehensively evaluates the project’s economic efficiency, effectiveness, equity, and overall impact. The WRAP implements to undertake demonstrations of Nature-based Solutions (NbS), including Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) interventions that will improve water security and governance, build resilience to climate change of communities at the target sites in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and enable the government and relevant stakeholders to implement and replicate NbS in Pakistan for building climate change resilience. The Paper is based on primary and secondary data collected using a well-structured interview schedule, focus group discussion, and other verified reports. The excel-based model was used for analysis, and a step-by-step and structured framework was used to conduct a VfM assessment. VFM estimates showed a favorable BCR across various interventions, with standout results like the Gabion check weirs and protection bunds (Gabion Bund) intervention achieving an impressive BCR of 3.50. These findings reaffirm the project’s ability to deliver substantial benefits while efficiently utilizing resources, making it a prudent investment in water resource management and natur- based solutions. WRAP’s equity analysis promotes inclusivity and fairness, particularly among vulnerable populations. While the project made significant strides in involving women in water-efficient practices, there is room for enhancing inclusiveness for lower-income and disabled populations. Recommendations emphasize setting specified targets for various populace categories to bolster the project’s social impact further.

Progress and gaps in climate change adaptation in coastal cities across the globe

Coastal cities are at the frontlines of climate change impacts, resulting in an urgent need for substantial adaptation. To understand whether, and to what extent, cities are on track to prepare for climate risks, this paper systematically assesses the academic literature to evaluate evidence on climate change adaptation in 199 coastal cities worldwide. Results show that adaptation in coastal cities is rather slow, of narrow scope and not transformative. Adaptation measures are predominantly designed based on past and current—rather than future—patterns in hazards, exposure and vulnerability. City governments, particularly in high-income countries, are more likely to implement institutional and infrastructural responses, whereas coastal cities in lower-middle-income countries often rely on households to implement behavioral adaptation. There is comparatively little published knowledge on coastal urban adaptation in low- and middle-income countries, and regarding particular adaptation types such as ecosystem-based adaptation. These insights make an important contribution for tracking adaptation progress globally and help to identify entry points for improving adaptation of coastal cities in the future.

Effectiveness of Community Forest Management as an Ecosystem-Based Adaptation Strategy in the Context of Nepal

Objectives: This study attempted to explore the effectiveness of community forest (CF) management as an ecosystem based adaptation (EbA) strategy in combating and adapting with the climate change impacts upon local ecosystems and communities. Method: In order to identify EbA options, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, governance and socioeconomic function of CF were analyzed. Effectiveness and sustainability were examined and compared through Land Use Land Cover (LULC) database during 1996 and 2021. Efficiency was explored through the economic valuation of provisioning and cultural services, using economic approach–revealed price (market price) method. Socioeconomic functions and governance were examined through the existing plans/policies and secondary data review. Findings: CF is effectively and sustainably managing the available resources. It has increased forest cover, water body, grassland and remarkable decline in bush and sand area. Bush area (79.25 ha in 1996) dropped (to 6.52 ha in 2021) while forest cover increased from 340.46 ha to 375.54 ha. Waterbody (pond or lake area) was limited to 0.88 ha that expanded to 5.04 ha in 2021 due to the conservation oriented management practices. Meanwhile, economic value of provisioning services is USD 7182 accounting wood and timber the highest (average annual USD 4800) among the provisioning services while average annual value of firewood and poles is USD 1367 and NTFP (fish and rubber) is USD 1015 whereas the economic value of cultural services is USD 18803. Novelty: The novelty of the research work lies in the unique methodology and the selection of CF for the EbA case study, which is least explored. By exposing the integration of ecological and socio-economic considerations, this research underscores the significance CF as EbA option in shaping sustainable development pathway in Nepalese context. Keywords: Ecosystem Services, Ecosystem Based Adaptation, Community Forest, Nepal, Land Management

Using the RedList of Ecosystems andthe Nature-based Solutions Global Standard as an integrated process for climate change adaptation inthe Andean high mountains.

Under anthropogenic pressures and climate change, most ecosystems are showing signs of reduced resilience. Unfortunately, some are more at risk of collapse and, without interventions, they may lose biodiversity, ecological integrity and ecosystem services. Here, we describe two tools that were developed under the auspices of the International Union for Conservation of Nature,the RedList of Ecosystems and the Nature-based Solutions Global Standard, and their capacity to first identify the ecosystems at risk of collapse in a nation and then develop solutions based on nature to improve their resilience. Nature-based solutions include, for example ecosystem-based adaptation, where solutions are developed to meet the needs of the local people while protecting nature to ensure greater resilience of the social-ecological system, not only the natural ecosystem. We discuss through a case study in the Andean high mountains and páramo social-ecological system how these approaches have been used in Colombia. We then discuss lessons learned and challenges that may reduce the capacity of a community to initiate such interventions, such as national policies and funding restrictions. We also discuss through another early case in Ecuador the importance to adapt these types of interventions to the geographical and cultural context of the social-ecological systems. This article is part of the theme issue 'Bringing nature into decision-making'.

The Three-Points Sponge Policy approach; toward an enhanced multi-level resilience strategy

Urban water management is confronted with more frequent, more extreme weather events. This paper introduces the Three-Points Approach (3PA) into Sponge City concept, to create a novel framework aimed at guiding water management interventions across local, urban, regional, and river basin scales. The 3PA integrates three domains—Day-to-day, Design, and Extreme —offering a nuanced strategy for flood and drought risk mitigation, also for extreme events. Notably, the 3PA emphasizes the fusion of blue-green infrastructure (BGI) with conventional gray approaches to enhance both multifunctionality and resilience in extreme weather conditions. The study identifies critical issues of implementing this Three-Points Sponge Policy (3PSP) approach, including spatial and temporal scales, transitioning from gray to blue-green infrastructure, asset management, data handling, and effective communication. Interventions spanning various spatial scales and addressing flood protection, drought resilience, and water quality are explored in a first and indicative application in Zhengzhou. The case study distills key design principles, highlighting the imperative of never shifting problems, embracing ecosystem-based adaptation, seeking synergy between interventions, and incorporating adaptability into designs. The 3PSP approach emerges as a holistic framework that considers both risks and benefits, contributing valuable insights to the discourse on integrating urban and river basin water management, improving our ways of dealing with extreme weather events while maximizing the day-to-day benefits of our interventions.

Rainfall reliability and maize production in the Bamenda Highlands of Cameroon

The long-term average rainfall for a given period (month, season or year) scarcely indicates reliability because rainfall in low latitudes varies significantly from one year to the other. The less variable rainfall is, the more reliable it is, as the index of variability measures the likelihood of repetition in the mean amount of rainfall. This study bridges some gaps in related studies in the Bamenda Highlands, such as a study assessing climate change impacts on food security, where the Rainfall Anomaly Index was used and another study on the impact of rainfall on maize production using the Standardized Precipitation Index. The objectives of this study are to assess rainfall reliability and establish the impact of rainfall reliability on maize production. Rainfall data were collected from 15 stations, while maize output was collected for four localities. Results revealed that rainfall is still reliable for 13 stations, with a coefficient of variations of 9.62 to 18.54 %, while Ndop and Ndawara recorded unreliable rainfall of 23.14 % and 30.97 % respectively. Rainfall reliability was complemented by the Standardized Precipitation Index, which showed that only 53.45 % of rainfall episodes were normal to sustain maize production, while 46.55 % were events of rainfall deficits. Maize production has been decreasing in Ndu, Oku and Nkum while increasing in Ndop. These findings reflect the realities of other tropical mountainous regions in the world. Faced with future climatic uncertainties, farmers should embrace agroecological practices, climate-smart agriculture, conservation agriculture, Nature-based Solutions, Ecosystem-based Adaptation and diversification of production systems and livelihood sources to ensure food security.

Between Floods and Climate Change: Revisiting the Mishing Community of Majuli Island, Northeast India

The transformation of monsoon rainfall patterns in India, largely attributed to climate change, is leading to more frequent and severe floods. These escalating challenges underscore the imperative of prioritising adaptive measures, given the intrinsic link between humans and climate change. This research conducted in Majuli Island, a highly vulnerable region in India’s northeast, aims to understand current adaptive strategies and assess potential risks from impending physical exposures. Empirical evidence was collected using purposive sampling in two flood-prone villages. The objective was to revisit the Mishing community’s experiences with annual flooding and climate challenges. Thematic analysis interpreted the qualitative findings. Implications for community-based adaptation and sustainable practices are discussed for future flood and climate challenges. The study emphasises strengthening ecosystem-based adaptation through multi-sectoral networking in Majuli Island, Northeast India.

Disaster risk reduction on stage: An empirical evaluation of community-based theatre as risk communication tool for coastal risk mitigation and ecosystem-based adaptation

The Sendai Framework highlights the need for an all-of-society effort to reduce the societal burden of flooding, with a focus on those being disproportionately affected. In this context, community-based organizations shall contribute to and support public awareness, a culture of prevention and education on disaster risk. Participatory theatre could be a promising means to that end, but quantitative evaluations are currently lacking. We provide a systematic literature review on participatory theatre in the context of natural hazards and disaster risk reduction. Moreover, we quantitatively evaluate to what extent community-based theatre implemented by the Women's Union in Central Vietnam could contribute to public awareness and foster societal engagement. 10 theatre performances in five coastal communes were evaluated using pre- and post-performance surveys among 635 visitors, mainly women. We find that community-based theatre enhanced risk perceptions, perceived flood knowledge, self-efficacy, and the importance of social participation. No significant effect was found on intentions to engage in (collective) risk reducing behavior. We conclude that participatory theatre is an effective risk-communication tool for community-based organizations, which should be embedded in broader activities addressing societal resilience against flooding. Future research should explore the sustainability of the observed increases and the long-term dynamics of behavioral changes.

Atoll Mangrove Progradation Patterns: Analysis from Jaluit in the Marshall Islands

AbstractLow-lying islands are vulnerable to coastal erosion, and mangroves, which can mitigate erosion, have suffered enormous losses in recent decades owing to human impacts. Previous studies have little investigated mangrove shores on atolls, which may face combined multiple threats. We analysed the large Marshall Islands atoll of Jaluit, at a higher resolution than previous spatial change studies, finding that mangrove shorelines prograded seawards over the last seven decades. Biogeomorphic colonisation processes were characterised from transects along ~ 14.6 km of shorelines. Mangrove progradation occurred in patterns of arc-shapes evident of long-shore drift deposition, patch expansion of offshore mangrove colonisers, and linear shoreline advance. Significant differences in the rates of expansion were identified, with arc-shaped colonisation showing the fastest rates of expansion. However, linear shoreline advance was the most frequent expansion pattern showing greater than three-fold more classified transects than arc-shaped colonisation and patch expansion. These results have implications for low island mangrove restoration. Applying mangrove planting patterns mimicking these different natural colonisation processes may enhance restoration success in ecosystem-based adaptation projects to mitigate sea level rise vulnerability. Results from this study show that atoll mangrove shorelines demonstrate resilience during past sea level rise rates, and that rates of expansion vary according to patterns of biogeomorphic colonisation.

Natural/Small Water Retention Measures: Their Contribution to Ecosystem-Based Concepts

The increasing incidence of droughts and heavy rainfall events is exacerbating conflicts between human and environmental demands for water. However, through providing multiple water-related ecosystem services and benefits simultaneously, Natural/Small Water Retention Measures (NSWRM) can mitigate such competing claims. Thus, they also contribute to the achievement of various Sustainable Development Goals and environmental targets set out in water- and agriculture-related policies of the European Union. In particular, NSWRM provide for the sound management of watersheds, which can significantly contribute to improved water quality and availability—as well as improving the resilience of agriculture and society. This paper demonstrates how NSWRM fit into the framework of ecosystem-based concepts, including Natural Water Retention Measures (NWRM), Green Infrastructure (GI), Sustainable Land Management (SLM), Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA), and Nature-based Solutions (NbS). NSWRM, as a distinct concept, bring added value to the other concepts by focussing on easy-to-implement, modestly sized, localised technical solutions to problems associated with water management, sediment, and nutrient loss. Through experience under the EU Horizon 2020 project OPTAIN (“OPtimal strategies to retAIN and re-use water and nutrients in small agricultural catchments across different soil-climatic regions in Europe”), we show what NSWRM are, how they are linked to each of the ecosystem-based concepts, and how they can help add value to these concepts. Fourteen case studies are drawn upon from diverse countries across Europe. As a result of this analysis, we present the potential for the application of NSWRM in the context of these concepts, while helping to identify planning tools, the expertise required, and potential funding mechanisms.