The role of social networks in relocation induced by climate-related hazards: an empirical investigation in China. (2nd January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tan, Jing; Zhou, Kui; Peng, Li; Lin, Lei
• Is Part Of: Climate and development. Volume 14:Number 1(2022)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 12
• Publication Date: 2022-01-02
• Subjects: Relocation -- social networks -- climate-related hazards -- rural household -- China; Climatic changes -- Periodicals; Climatic changes -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Climatic changes -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; Global temperature changes -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; 363.7387405
• DOI: 10.1080/17565529.2021.1877102
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1756-5529

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Relocation is an adaptive strategy applied to prevent the threats of climate-related hazards. Thus, understanding the determinants of rural households' adaptation decisions is crucial when informing policy interventions. This study explores the role of social networks (or peer groups) in geohazard-induced relocation using survey data ( N = 516) from Chongqing, China. This study applies an instrument variable (IV) method and a series of robustness checks to confirm the findings. The results indicate that (1) social networks' willingness to relocate (WTR) increases one's relocation intention; and (2) people imitate their peers' mobility choices by consciously observing and learning when facing uncertain climate-related hazard risks. Our findings contribute to comprehending whether and why social networks prompt population relocation decisions and help policymakers exploit the role of peer groups when implementing relocation-related policies in geohazard-prone regions.