Resilience and Adaptation to Climate Change: Community-Based Strategies in Coastal Regions

Abstract

Coastal communities are highly vulnerable to climate change impacts, including sea level rise, extreme weather events, and ecological degradation These challenges pose significant threats to the livelihoods, infrastructure and well-being of coastal communities , especially in developing areas with limited resources to grow The effectiveness of -based optimization strategies (CBA) is investigated. The crisis statement focuses on the urgent need for sustainable and adaptable adaptation solutions that can mitigate the negative impacts of climate change, and enable communities to take ownership of these efforts. Traditional top-down approaches have generally proven inadequate to address the unique socio-cultural and environmental dynamics of coastal areas. The objectives of this study are threefold: to identify and analyze key CBA strategies that have been implemented in coastal areas, to assess their effectiveness in reducing vulnerability and increasing resilience, and to explore the role of local knowledge, resources and governance play a part in the development of a successful change strategy. The results show significant improvements in several key areas. Income increased by 25%, and 35% of households adopted climate-resilient lifestyles. Economic losses from disasters were reduced by 45% and key infrastructure was strengthened by 80% against climate risk. The study found a 28% reduction in climate-related diseases, a 90% increase in water quality and the restoration of 600 hectares of biodiversity, leading to a loss of biodiversity above 20%. In addition, 75% of the community participated actively in decision-making, and 65% of the reform projects integrated traditional knowledge. These findings suggest that CBA strategies not only effectively reduce the immediate risks of climate change, but also build long-term resilience by empowering communities to lead the adaptation process. The study highlights the importance of scaling up these initiatives to increase coastal resilience globally.