Resilience to climate change: adapting livelihoods in coastal Pakistan

Abstract

Climate change poses significant challenges to coastal communities worldwide, particularly in vulnerable regions like coastal Pakistan. This study explores the adaptive strategies employed by local communities to maintain their livelihoods amidst changing environmental conditions. Through a qualitative analysis of interviews and field observations conducted in coastal areas of Pakistan, this research sheds light on the resilience mechanisms employed by communities facing climate-induced threats. The findings reveal a variety of adaptation strategies, including diversification of livelihoods, adoption of climate-resilient agricultural practices, and community-based resource management initiatives. Moreover, social networks, traditional knowledge, and institutional support play crucial roles in enhancing resilience and fostering adaptive capacity within these communities. By understanding the dynamics of resilience in coastal Pakistan, policymakers and stakeholders can formulate targeted interventions to strengthen adaptive capacity and promote sustainable development in the face of climate change.