HomeIAMURE International Journal of Ecology and Conservationvol. 7 no. 1 (2013)

Climate Change Adaptation and Social Capital: The Case of Red River Delta Biological Reserve, Vietnam

Quyen Dinh Ha | Josefina T. Dizon | Maria Ana T. Quimbo | Agnes C. Rola | Lynlei L. Pintor

 

Abstract:

Climate change adaptation is a social issue that needs to be taken into account. Social capital plays a vital role in climate change adaptation. This study focused on climate change adaptation and social capital of the coastal communities. Methods used include key informant interviews and review of documents. Descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution, percentages, and means were used to describe the data. As a climate change adaptation strategy, most of the participants prepare equipment for mobilization and build solid and firm infrastructures. The respondents consider themselves knowledgeable on climate change adaptation because of their attendance at trainings and workshops. During evacuation, priority is given to elderly and children. They also collaborate with concerned organizations whenever there is a typhoon. Community practices during possible flooding include evacuation, securing of property, preparation of materials to protect houses, and strengthening of sea dike. Community members are affiliated with an organization. Assistance extended to the coastal communities centered on disaster prevention, fortification of houses, and evacuation, which is the utmost priority of the coastal communities during typhoon and flooding. Collaboration with networks is more evident among coastal communities when a strong typhoon is coming than when there is flooding.