Economics of Climate Change in the Indian Sundarbans
Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This area is populated by some of the world’s poorest people characterized by low levels of socio-economic indicators. However, it is one of the richest areas in the world in terms of natural resources and biodiversity. Climate change is evident here and is one of the important drivers of migration, food insecurity and poverty in this area. The basic objective of our study is to assess the socio-economic impact of climate change and its implications for availability of natural resources, and thereby to understand the adaptation needs of the people. Climate change not only impacts agricultural productivity but also the occupational structure. The decline in food security and the lack of other developmental choices in the face of climate variability are a serious threat to the economic viability of population. We have used stratified sampling techniques for data collection at household level based on pre-designed questionnaires and focus group discussion. We have tried to analyze vulnerability based on LIFE framework and log-linear regression model, and suggest some adaptation strategies to reduce vulnerability.