Geographies of Disaster Risk Reduction Practices : Climate Disasters, Coastal Socio-Ecological Challenges and Participatory GIS

Coastal regions are increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of the climate crisis, including sea-level rise, cyclones, flooding, coastal erosion, and unsustainable development. These interconnected challenges threaten both ecosystems and livelihoods, highlighting the urgent need for innovative and inclusive approaches to disaster risk reduction. This book examines the evolving socio-ecological dimensions of climate-related disasters in coastal environments and explores the potential of participatory Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity.

Organised into three parts, the book first introduces key concepts, theories, and approaches related to climate disasters, geographies of coastal socio-ecological systems, and vulnerability assessment. The second part investigates contemporary challenges facing coastal communities and critically examines nature-based, community-centered, and participatory approaches to disaster risk reduction. Particular attention is given to the integration of local and Indigenous knowledge within participatory GIS frameworks for more effective and equitable decision-making. The final part presents empirical insights through field narratives and case studies that address climate adaptation, community resilience, sea-level rise, coastal flooding, migration, climate variability, Indigenous technical knowledge, sustainable management practices, and others.

Bridging theory, methodology, and practice, this volume advances understanding of coastal disaster risk reduction and offers valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, policymakers, planners, students, and others engaged in climate resilience and sustainable coastal development.