Barriers to adaptation: Insights from Laamu Atoll, Maldives. (28th January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Clissold, Rachel; McNamara, Karen E.; Westoby, Ross
• Other Names: Ann Miller Michelle guestEditor.; Rigg Jonathan guestEditor.; Taylor David guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: Asia Pacific viewpoint. Volume 61:Number 2(2020:Aug.)
• Page Start: 381
• Page End: 390
• Publication Date: 2020-01-28
• Subjects: barrier interdependency -- climate change adaptation -- constraints to adaptation -- resilience -- small island developing state -- vulnerability; Asia -- Economic conditions -- Periodicals; Asia -- Social conditions -- Periodicals; Pacific Area -- Economic conditions -- Periodicals; Pacific Area -- Social conditions -- Periodicals; 910.91823
• DOI: 10.1111/apv.12258
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1360-7456

Abstract

Abstract : Although adaptation to climate change is becoming increasingly recognised as an unavoidable priority, barriers are consistently encountered and reported. Identifying, analysing and overcoming these barriers is essential for ensuring that, as climate change worsens, adaptation capacities are not exceeded. Despite current studies providing a useful structuring heuristic to guide inquiry, there is a significant gap related to explanations around barrier occurrence and how to overcome them. In response, this article, based on semi‐structured stakeholder interviews, aims to provide preliminary insights into the type of barriers that exist in Laamu Atoll, the Maldives and explore any interdependencies between them. This study found that a range of resource barriers (i.e. funding, physical and human resources in outer islands and data on vulnerable groups) and social barriers (i.e. political/institutional and organisational constraints and inefficiencies, marginalisation and power differences as well as cognitive elements) were hampering adaptation. In exploring the interdependencies that exist between these barriers, the nature of their occurrence, persistence and entry points for resolution were also identified.