Vulnerability

Vulnerability in the context of climate change refers to the degree to which a system, community, or population is susceptible to and unable to cope with the adverse effects and impacts caused by climate-related hazards. It encompasses the exposure to climatic threats (such as floods, heatwaves, and storms), the sensitivity of the system to those hazards, and the adaptive capacity, which is the ability to adjust or recover from them. Vulnerability can vary significantly across regions, communities, and social groups, often being heightened in densely populated areas, among low-income populations, marginalized groups, and those dependent on climate-sensitive livelihoods such as smallholder farming and fishing. It is shaped by a complex interplay of biophysical factors—like geography and ecosystem health—and socio-economic factors including governance, resource access, and existing inequalities. Understanding vulnerability is crucial for guiding risk assessments, developing climate adaptation strategies, and promoting equitable resilience-building interventions to reduce climate risks and protect vulnerable populations effectively.