INTRODUCTION
The necessity of the research
Climate change is profoundly affecting Vietnam's socio-economic development, natural resources, and environment, leading to unpredictable precipitation, rising temperatures, and severe weather events like storms, floods, and droughts From 1958 to 2018, the average annual temperature across the country rose by approximately 0.91°C, averaging an increase of 0.15°C per decade Additionally, many regions are experiencing more frequent extreme, unseasonal, and anomalous rainfall The coastal areas are particularly vulnerable, with sea levels rising by about 3.5 mm per year.
Quang Binh is ranked among the top twenty most hazardous provinces in Vietnam, facing threats such as storms, floods, whirlwinds, river and sea bank erosion, and saline intrusion (ISPONRE, 2016) According to climate change projections from 2021, the average annual temperature in Quang Binh is expected to rise by 1.5°C under the RCP4.5 scenario and by 2.0°C under the RCP8.5 scenario by the mid-21st century.
Adaptive capacity refers to a system's ability to modify its characteristics or behaviors to enhance its resilience against current and future climate conditions (Nick Brooks & W Neil Adger, 2003) Strengthening this capacity is crucial for promoting adaptive behaviors that reduce vulnerability to climate change impacts (Barry Smit & Johanna Wandel, 2006) Research on adaptive capacity focuses on identifying existing plans and strategies to improve climate risk adaptation (Vietnam Institute of Meteorology, Hydrology and Environment, 2010) Recent studies in Vietnam have explored methods to reduce susceptibility and enhance adaptation to climate change, including assessments of coastal urban households in Lien Chieu district, Da Nang city (Mai Trong Nhuan et al., 2015), and household adaptive capacity in Quang Dien District, Thua Thien Hue Province (Tran Cong Dung et al., 2019).
Climate change adaptation is being tackled across various sectors to meet specific socio-natural system goals, highlighting the complex interplay between humans and the environment (Mai Trong Nhuan et al., 2015) Gender inequalities significantly influence how individuals and communities experience and respond to climate change, with both women and men facing unique challenges in their adaptation efforts (International Union of Conservation of Nature, 2015).
Quang Binh is significantly vulnerable to climate change, necessitating an evaluation of the local population's adaptability to its impacts This study aims to develop a framework for assessing climate change adaptability in Quang Binh province, focusing on measuring the adaptive capacity of both men and women.
The study adopts a sustainable development approach, emphasizing that adaptation to climate change is a crucial goal linked to community welfare and development The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) from 2015, particularly SDG 5 on gender equality and SDG 13 on climate action and disaster risk reduction, highlight the interconnection between development and gender equality Consequently, the sustainable development framework advocates for the empowerment of all individuals, including men, women, and marginalized groups.
Analytical framework
This study investigates the factors influencing the ability to adapt to climate change by analyzing various manifestations and activities It compares data based on independent variables such as commune and gender to identify differences in adaptation capabilities The findings are evaluated to assess how well individuals in the study area can respond to climate change Additionally, the study offers recommendations aimed at enhancing the adaptive capacity of both local women and men.
Research objectives and tasks
To find out the status of the adaptive capacity of local people in Quang Ninh district, Quang Binh province
- Analyzing data and synthesising information to find out the status
- Assessing the level of adaptive capacity
To find out the differences between women and men in adaptive capacity to climate change
- Analyzing data and synthesising information to find out the differences
To find out the causes affecting the adaptive capacity of women and men to climate change
- Adopting and analyzing data and synthesising information to find out the causes
To propose recommendations, and solutions to enhance the adaptive capacity of local people to climate change
- Collect information related to solutions and recommendations to enhance the adaptive capacity of local people
- Proposing suitable solutions, and recommendations for Quang Binh.
Research object and scope of the research
The research focuses on assessing the adaptive capacity of women and men in Quang Ninh district, Quang Binh province, Vietnam
- Scope of time: The research was conducted from November 2022 to June 2023
The study focused on Duy Ninh and Tan Ninh communes in Quang Ninh District, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam, chosen for their heightened vulnerability and significant effects from climate change and natural disasters.
- Scope of content: The research focused on social aspects of assessing the adaptive capacity of women and men.
Research questions and hypotheses
What is the current status of the capacity of local people to adapt to climate change?
The adaptive capacity of people to climate change is limited and dependent on external support, and there are noticeable differences between men and women
Research questions Hypotheses affected the adaptive capacity of local people
What factors influence differences between the adaptive capacity of women and men?
The adaptive capacity of both women and men to climate change is significantly influenced by key factors such as awareness of climate issues, access to information, traditional gender roles, decision-making processes, and the availability of financial resources.
Limitations of this research
Due to constraints in time and resources, this study concentrated on two communes in the Quang Ninh district of Quang Binh province, emphasizing community perspectives on social and gender issues However, it did not thoroughly explore other critical factors, including natural, environmental, and technical aspects, that influence the local population's adaptability to climate change.
LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL BASIS
Literature review
2.1.1 Overview of gender issues and climate change
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development outlines 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting poverty, inequality, and violence against women as critical issues of the 21st century In parallel, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) builds on the Hyogo Framework and incorporates gender-sensitive principles, promoting greater involvement of women in resilience development Emphasizing gender equality and women's empowerment is essential for achieving these goals.
The 2015 Paris Agreement emphasizes the importance of gender-responsive policies in adaptation and capacity-building measures, urging member nations to incorporate gender priorities into their climate action commitments Many of the Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) demonstrate this commitment by reflecting gender considerations in their climate action strategies (UNDP, 2017).
Climate change poses a significant threat to sustainable development, disproportionately affecting the poor and marginalized communities Leveraging knowledge and skills in mitigation, disaster reduction, and adaptation is essential Studies highlight that gender equality and women's empowerment are vital for economic growth and environmental sustainability Countries with higher female representation in legislative bodies are more likely to establish protected areas and endorse international environmental agreements The UNDP (2011) emphasizes that women's increased participation is crucial for climate action, particularly in disaster management, where they effectively mobilize communities throughout the risk-management cycle Despite the growing acknowledgment of gender perspectives in climate policy, substantial gender-based barriers persist in both international and national frameworks Ensuring women's meaningful engagement will enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of climate initiatives, addressing existing inequalities and aligning with international commitments for gender equality and empowerment.
Vietnam, situated in Southeast Asia's tropical region on the eastern Indochina Peninsula, boasts a 3,260-kilometer coastline and is significantly impacted by climate change (MONRE, 2016).
Oxfam (2018) highlights that the government's achievements in reducing poverty are at risk due to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and climate change, which particularly impact vulnerable populations Disadvantaged women and men, especially in rural areas, face greater challenges as natural disasters disproportionately affect them; they often lack swimming skills, have limited options to adapt their livelihoods after crop failures, and face fewer employment opportunities To address these issues, it is essential to enhance community resilience and engagement in climate change initiatives, focus on sustainable livelihood development, improve public health and access to essential services, and leverage local knowledge in climate response strategies (NDC, 2022).
2.1.2 The adaptive capacity of women and men to climate change
Marginalized individuals—whether socially, economically, culturally, politically, or institutionally—face heightened vulnerability to climate change and its associated adaptation and mitigation strategies This vulnerability arises not from a singular cause but from a complex interplay of social processes that lead to disparities in socioeconomic status, income, and environmental exposure Factors such as discrimination based on gender, class, ethnicity, age, and ability significantly contribute to these inequalities.
Underdeveloped and coastal nations are disproportionately affected by climate change, with vulnerable groups such as the impoverished, elderly, women, and children facing greater challenges in adaptation (Habtezion, 2013) Climate change exacerbates existing gender inequalities, causing women to suffer more due to disparities in health, land ownership, and decision-making power within families and communities (Annecke, 2012; Eastin, 2018) Despite the importance of understanding these dynamics, there have been limited gender assessments regarding the impact of social capital and livelihood assets on climate change adaptation Previous research highlights the role of social capital in enhancing material resources and adaptive capacity, as well as the gender differences that influence social capital (UNDP).
According to UNDP (2014), marginalized groups such as women, the elderly, and indigenous populations are particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts Wong (2008) highlights that gender differences in power and responsibilities lead to varied effects on men and women, with women often bearing the brunt of household duties and caregiving Cultural norms can restrict women's decision-making during disasters and hinder their mobility due to clothing and caregiving roles Economic disparities and limited access to resources further exacerbate women's vulnerability, as they tend to be poorer and less educated, with minimal involvement in decision-making processes (Mearns and Norton, 2008) Additionally, legal barriers in 155 of 173 countries restrict women's economic rights, particularly concerning land ownership, which is vital for poverty alleviation and food security (World Bank, 2015) Consequently, poverty and socio-political marginalization significantly hinder women's ability to cope with climate change challenges.
Phan Thi Loan (2019) highlights that gender norms significantly influence community life and dictate decision-making roles in adaptation strategies Focus group discussions revealed that men exert greater influence than women in determining adaptation options, with women often lacking confidence and choosing silence to avoid conflict This dynamic reinforces gender inequalities and spreads misinformation among women, increasing their reliance on group support and vulnerability to climate change impacts Additionally, men's dominance in formal political organizations grants them decision-making power at both family and community levels, enabling them to control natural and financial resources, which enhances their economic resilience to disasters.
Age, class, and gender are critical factors in assessing vulnerability amid climate change, particularly affecting elderly and female farmers who are often left behind due to labor migration and state pressures for increased production Women, who play a vital role in agriculture, face significant barriers to accessing resources and participating in knowledge creation, hindering their ability to improve their precarious situations and influence policy-making National adaptation strategies often overlook the unique rights, obligations, and vulnerabilities tied to specific contexts, while technological solutions fail to address gender dynamics, limiting opportunities for female farmers To achieve social goals and national targets related to economic growth, climate response, gender equality, and sustainable development, it is essential to recognize and incorporate the social dynamics of age, class, gender, and location into national plans and programs.
Relevant definitions
Climate change is a change in the Earth's climate system caused by natural and human
According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
Since 1994, climate change has been linked to both direct and indirect human-induced alterations in the global atmospheric composition, alongside the natural climate variability observed over similar timeframes.
Climate change refers to significant shifts in climate patterns, characterized by extreme weather events, including intense heat, cold spells, droughts, and rising sea levels This study analyzes the frequency and severity of these phenomena, comparing their strength and impact over time, which encompasses storms, floods, erosion, and natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis.
Adaptive capacity describes ―the ability of systems, institutions, humans and other organisms to adjust to potential damage, to take advantage of opportunities, or to respond to consequences‖ (IPCC, 2014)
Adaptive capacity refers to the ability to develop and execute effective strategies to address changing hazards and pressures, thereby reducing the likelihood and impact of climate-related risks It involves learning from past experiences to navigate current climate challenges and applying those insights to prepare for future uncertainties.
Brooks & Adger (2005) emphasize that understanding both historical climate data and future climate change scenarios is vital for enhancing adaptive capacity Additionally, knowledge of socioeconomic systems, including their past and potential future developments, is crucial Key factors influencing adaptive capacity include financial capital, social capital (such as strong institutions and transparent decision-making), human resources (like skills and expertise), and the execution of adaptation strategies A society's collective action and conflict resolution abilities, significantly shaped by governance, are essential for effective adaptation Resistance to acknowledging climate change hazards or the reluctance of key stakeholders to take responsibility can hinder adaptive capacity, often stemming from ideological beliefs or vested interests Furthermore, overarching economic forces and prevailing ideologies play a critical role in determining the feasibility of adaptation efforts.
This study defines adaptive capacity as the ability and actions taken by local communities to effectively respond to climate change and disaster risks It encompasses awareness, skills, experiences, assets, and social networks, alongside the capacity to access, control, and make decisions regarding adaptation strategies Key elements of adaptive capacity include the utilization of human, financial, social, physical, and natural capital to mitigate risks and enhance resilience against climate change impacts Additionally, the study highlights that the ability to adapt varies among target groups, influenced by both subjective and objective factors, with gender being a significant determinant.
In Clause 1, Article 5 of the Law on Gender Equality (2006) of Vietnam, gender is the characteristics, position and role of men and women in all social relationships
In this study, gender is defined as the socially constructed attributes associated with women, men, and girls within a specific culture or society Gender roles are influenced by various economic, cultural, and social factors, highlighting the complexity of gender dynamics.
(2005), women and men generally have three gender roles, including productive role, reproducing role and community role
The productive function involves both genders actively participating in activities to generate income or create goods that are not consumed by others This includes personal production, which has a use value and potential exchange rate, as well as market production with an established exchange rate Examples of this can be seen in various careers within the formal and informal sectors, such as agriculture, trade, and labor.
The concept of "reproductive role" encompasses responsibilities such as child-rearing and household management, essential for sustaining family life This includes tasks like childbirth, cooking, nurturing children, fetching water, and maintaining cleanliness in the home (Fajarwati et al., 2016).
Community administration tasks are an extension of reproductive roles, encompassing unpaid activities like weddings, funerals, and social gatherings, while also addressing community needs In contrast, political management occurs at a formal level, often involving compensation and leading to increased status or power This political role influences significant decisions affecting residents, such as electing village leaders and organizing land and water distribution meetings.
Climate change affects women and men differently due to distinct gender roles, which also influence their capacity to adapt Men, typically associated with productive roles, often have better access to adaptation opportunities, such as livelihood options, financial resources, and migration for additional income In contrast, women are often left at home managing farm work and other productive responsibilities, which increases their burden (UNFCCC, 2022).
The study explores how gender roles—specifically productive roles that generate income, reproductive roles related to family responsibilities, and community roles involving public participation—impact the ability of both women and men to adapt to climate change.
Theoretical basis
The gender-climate change framework is an essential tool for analyzing the relationship between climate change and gender issues, offering a comprehensive overview of gender differences in climate change adaptation.
Figure 2.1: Gender - climate change framework (Source: Bryan & Behrman (2013))
Bryan and Behrman (2013) outline a gender-climate change analysis framework comprising four essential components: climatic signals, vulnerability context, adaptation area, and well-being outcomes In this interconnected cycle, climate signals impact the vulnerability context, which in turn influences the adaptation area Subsequently, the adaptive area affects well-being outcomes, and these outcomes circle back to influence the vulnerability context, highlighting the dynamic interactions among these elements.
Climate signals refer to long-term changes in average climate conditions, including variations in the duration and intensity of weather events The response of various agents and systems is influenced by the characteristics of climate change triggers, specifically the extent of stress experienced and the magnitude and severity of the events.
The vulnerability context encompasses various factors that influence an individual or community's susceptibility to climate change Key elements include user characteristics such as livelihood activities, assets, social traits, gender, and cognitive abilities, alongside social norms Additionally, access to climate information and technologies plays a crucial role in information and knowledge sharing Mechanisms and institutions, including markets, laws, and organizational strategies, shape perceptions of climate change and dictate responses at the household and community levels Finally, physiological characteristics, particularly the sensitivity of physical and ecological systems like water and land resources, further determine how communities are affected by climate change.
Strengthening the capacity of individuals, families, and communities to adapt to climate change enhances quality of life and reduces vulnerability to its adverse effects These actors possess diverse perceptions, needs, and preferences, which influence their adaptive decisions, particularly when they have access to resources and decision-making power Additionally, institutional frameworks and legal regulations play a crucial role in shaping the adaptive actions of these actors.
Adaptation decisions significantly impact the quality of life for individuals, households, groups, and communities The nature of these adaptations determines their effectiveness on well-being outcomes Moreover, the resulting quality of life influences future vulnerability to climate change, which in turn affects subsequent adaptation choices.
This research applies a gender-climate change analysis framework to explore the intricate interactions between gender and climate change, revealing underlying societal factors It emphasizes the differences in awareness, attitudes, and actions related to climate change among individuals, both women and men.
In the context of gender and climate change, user characteristics, including various forms of assets, play a crucial role in adaptation efforts These assets encompass tangible and intangible elements such as human, social, physical, natural, and financial capital The interplay of these five types of capital significantly influences the actions of those adapting to climate change, as highlighted by Theo Lax, Jutta Krug, and Joachim (2013) in their sustainable livelihood approach.
Figure 2.2: The five capitals considered in the sustainable livelihood approach
(Source: Lax, Jutta; Krug & Joachim (2013))
Human capital encompasses the skills, knowledge, labor capacity, and good health necessary for individuals to pursue diverse livelihood strategies and achieve their economic goals (DFID, 2000).
Social capital, akin to human capital, is difficult to quantify with specific metrics It encompasses informal networks, membership in formalized groups, and trust-based relationships that promote cooperation (Clark & Carney 2008, Sayer & Campbell 2003).
Natural capital is essential for all forms of habitation, especially for societies reliant on natural resources It serves as a crucial asset that is particularly susceptible to disasters, impacting rural communities with many impoverished individuals These disasters often stem from natural events like floods, fires, seasonal storms, and earthquakes.
Physical capital refers to the infrastructure necessary for supporting subsistence needs, highlighting its importance in economic productivity This asset plays a crucial role in opportunity costs, as readily available infrastructure can liberate labor and allocate time for valuable activities like education.
Financial capital can be accumulated from two primary sources: available assets like cash or livestock, and external inflows such as labor income, pensions, and remittances As one of the five essential capitals, financial capital plays a crucial role in enabling individuals to adapt to different means of subsistence and serves as a foundation for the growth and improvement of other forms of capital.
This study utilizes a sustainable livelihoods framework that encompasses five capitals—human, social, physical, natural, and financial—to identify key assessment indicators Following this, an assessment toolkit is developed, which includes a survey questionnaire, in-depth interview questions, and a guide for group discussions.
Social network theory examines the dynamics of individuals, groups, and organizations, highlighting how interpersonal interactions influence and shape human behavior within social systems This theory encompasses multiple perspectives, each employing distinct analytical approaches to understand these complex relationships.
Fichter (1957) states that a social network is understood as a social structure formed by
Relevant documents and policies
The international legal framework addressing climate change includes key agreements such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015), and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG13) Additionally, the Kyoto Protocol (1997) and the Paris Agreement (2016) play crucial roles in guiding global efforts to mitigate climate change and enhance resilience against its impacts.
Vietnam's legal framework for addressing climate change includes the Law on Environmental Protection, the National Action Plan for implementing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Roadmap for achieving SDG 13 Additionally, the country's Sustainable Development Strategy for 2021-2030 and its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) further outline commitments and strategies to combat climate change and promote sustainability.
METHODOLOGY
Methods
This study focuses on gathering quantitative data regarding the socio-demographic characteristics of individuals in the research area It examines the current adaptability of both women and men to climate change, identifying key factors that influence their adaptability Additionally, the research highlights the differences in climate change adaptability between genders, providing insights into how these variations impact responses to environmental challenges.
Conduct research by organizing direct surveys at the research site while ensuring adherence to research procedures and principles
A random sample was drawn from two low-lying communes in Quang Ninh district, Quang Binh province, both of which are significantly impacted by climate change and natural disasters.
This article focuses on the collection, synthesis, and analysis of studies, reports, and articles to identify gaps in existing research, thereby contributing new insights to the field By utilizing questionnaire results, the study aims to present statistical data on the adaptive capacity of local populations, highlighting gender differences and influencing factors Ultimately, it seeks to provide accurate assessments of both women's and men's adaptive capacities and offer tailored recommendations for improvement.
Sample size: 100 people (50 men and 50 women)
To enhance the questionnaire method and gather more detailed insights on climate change, a semi-structured interview guide will be utilized The primary aim of these in-depth interviews is to clarify the complex and diverse information related to climate change and the adaptability of both men and women Additionally, supplementary data mining techniques will be employed to better understand gender disparities in the ability to adapt to climate change among the target groups.
Having interviews with four target groups including 04 women, 04 men and 06 local leaders
The study utilized secondary data sources, including the Local Socio-Economic Report, Local Flood and Storm Report, and the National Development Contribution (NDC) 2022 Through data analysis, the research synthesized information regarding the country's characteristics, focusing on the climate change situation and the adaptive capacities of local women and men in the study area.
The study used primary data from the questionnaire survey and interviews Information obtained from questionnaires was be processed by the statistical software (SPSS version
Descriptive statistical analysis was conducted to determine the frequency and trends within the data To assess gender differences between women and men, an independent sample T-test was utilized, analyzing two independent variables: women and men Additionally, data from in-depth interviews were analyzed to gain further insights.
Research indicators
This study establishes a comprehensive set of human-centered research indicators focused on adaptation within social units—individuals, groups, and communities—by integrating concepts related to gender, climate change, and social networks.
Human capital is exemplified by individuals' knowledge and skills related to climate change and adaptation People acquire and enhance their understanding through various means, including media consumption, education, information exchange, and hands-on experience with local climate issues and natural disasters.
Social capital plays a crucial role in understanding how gender interactions influence adaptation to climate change It encompasses social communication through community group participation, social power derived from involvement in community funds and support networks, and democratic policy, which includes the capacity to engage in decision-making processes within the community.
Physical capital encompasses a family's property and equipment essential for adapting to climate change, including items like televisions, refrigerators, air conditioners, and rice cookers It also includes the family's housing characteristics—such as the type, safety, and climate resilience of the home—as well as public facilities and local resources like electric lighting, roads, health stations, and schools that are crucial for accessibility during climate change and disaster risks.
Land resources (land type, land use purpose, land area, and land quality), water resources charitable groups, banks, organizations, and sources of support from the government and foreign budgets
This article reviews various theories and methods that assess the ability to adapt to climate change, emphasizing social aspects It aims to evaluate the adaptability status in Quang Ninh district, Quang Binh province, Vietnam, while also exploring gender differences in adaptation capabilities between women and men.
Knowledge about CC and adaptation, mitigation to
Participation in training courses, propagation, rehearsal for disaster mitigation and CC adaptation
Sharing and exchanging information on disaster and
Skills about CC and adaptation, mitigation to CC The training and the channel to get skills
Experience with climate change and natural disasters
Experience with climate change and natural disasters
Measures to cope with climate change
Health status Number of insurance coverage Education Education level
Job The important of livelihood to adapt to CC
Ability to access resoures Ability to control resoures
Decision making power Ability to making decision Social communication Participation in social organizations
Institutions and policies Local support policies
Backup power for lighting (generators, kerosene lamps, candles)
Items used in extreme weather/natural disasters (rice cookers, air conditioners, fans, etc.)
Food and essentials storage Size of house
Type of house Drainage system and toilet (workable) Infrastructure Medical services, hospitals and medical facilities
Type of land ownership Size of land
Type of water that local people use before and after disasters
Grazing resources Type and the number of animals Air quality Air pollution
Credit How much and from who?
Income Average income per month Savings Money saving
Remittances Remittances from family member
(Source: All indicators were built by the author on the aspect of synthesizing information from the theoretical basis)
The survey employs a 5-point Likert scale to assess the satisfaction and agreement levels of local women and men regarding specific indicators A score of 5 represents the highest level of satisfaction or agreement, while a score of 1 indicates the lowest level of appropriate adaptive actions and expressions, reflecting the ability to effectively utilize both internal and external resources.
Cognitive awareness of climate change can be categorized into three levels: basic, average, and high Basic awareness involves recognizing and experiencing climate change through local phenomena and understanding some adaptation actions Average awareness includes a broader understanding of climate change manifestations and the ability to apply most adaptation strategies High awareness signifies a comprehensive understanding of climate change and its characteristics, along with the flexible application of all available adaptation actions.
General characteristics of respondents to the questionnaire were listed in Table 3.2
Table 3.2 General characteristics of survey‘s respondents
Education level Not going to school, illiterate 0 0
The survey respondents were evenly distributed across two main age groups: those under 45 and those aged 45 and older, with the latter group making up 4% more of the total This demographic split highlights two distinct trends: younger individuals are more inclined to actively seek work and enhance their income, while those aged 45 and above tend to adopt a more relaxed approach as they prepare for retirement.
All respondents in the survey were Kinh people, with 48% having completed high school as their highest level of education Other educational backgrounds included vocational training, lower secondary schools, and some participants with university or college degrees Overall, the survey population primarily consisted of individuals with a general education foundation, lacking specialized expertise or advanced skills.
Most respondents are people with stable marital status and married The rate of unmarried accounts for a negligible proportion, less than 2% of the total
Figure 3.1: Occupation of local people
According to Figure 3.1, 50% of individuals rely on agriculture for their livelihood, while 21% of the male population is employed as factory and workshop workers The remaining 29% engage in various professions, including teaching, healthcare, carpentry, and small business ventures.
Table 3.3 Average monthly income of local people
The average monthly income of the respondents is 4.38 million VND, with earnings ranging from a minimum of 1 million VND to a maximum of 9 million VND This indicates that the majority of individuals fall within the medium to high-income bracket.
In Ninh commune, men earn an average income of 5.3 million VND, which is nearly 1 million VND higher than the overall average of 4.38 million VND reported by interviewees In contrast, women in the same area have a significantly lower average income of 3.4 million VND per month.
3.3.2 Characteristics of in-depth interview respondents
General characteristics of respondents to the in-depth interview were listed in Table 3.4
Table 3.4 General characteristics of in-depth interview respondents
Education level Not going to school, illiterate 0 0
In-depth interviews were conducted with two main groups, including local people and government officials, evenly distributed by gender and equally distributed in Duy Ninh and Tan Ninh communes
The number of people participating in the in-depth interview was 8 people, 100% are married, Kinh ethnicity, and education level graduated from lower secondary school The
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The status of the adaptive capacity to climate change of women and men and
4.1.1 Awareness of women and men about climate change
Residents of Duy Ninh and Tan Ninh communes possess a fundamental understanding of climate change, shaped by their direct experiences with extreme weather events Their awareness is further enhanced through information accessed via media channels and participation in local training programs and initiatives organized by non-governmental organizations focused on climate change.
● Access to information about climate change
A recent survey revealed that all participants are familiar with the concept of "climate change." The primary sources of information include radio and television (98%), local information channels (77%), the Internet (62%), shared acquaintances (43%), seminars and propaganda (41%), and magazines (15%) This awareness is closely linked to local access to technology, particularly in households equipped with televisions or radios, highlighting the impact of technological advancements and smart mobile devices on information dissemination.
Figure 4.1: Channels to get information about climate change
Communication in the province is facilitated through various channels, including the provincial website on Facebook, community loudspeakers, and 1-2 annual training sessions organized by local departments and mass organizations The primary source of information for residents is television and local news channels, with knowledge often shared among family members and friends, creating a network of information transfer within the community.
A study utilizing the independent variable T-test to examine gender differences in access to climate change information reveals that there is no significant difference between men and women when accessing information via radio, television, and local news channels However, a notable disparity exists in access to journals, with men demonstrating a higher average knowledge of climate change—0.26 points more than women Conversely, when it comes to accessing information through the Internet, seminars, propaganda, and personal networks, women outperform men, showing an average difference ranging from 0.34 to 0.36 in their knowledge of climate change.
Duy Ninh, the lowest area in the district, is significantly impacted by flooding, with water levels reaching over 3 meters compared to Tan Ninh's 1-1.5 meters This severe experience with climate change has made the residents of Duy Ninh proactive in seeking information, and the local government has heavily invested in raising awareness Their training programs not only provide knowledge but also incorporate practical exercises and rehearsals on disaster response, equipping the community with essential skills to handle natural disasters effectively.
Duy Ninh commune, situated in the lowest part of the district and adjacent to three major rivers, experiences significant flooding, prompting residents to adapt and learn to cope with these challenges.
A significant 96% of individuals, evenly split between genders, reported participating in training courses focused on climate change knowledge and skills These courses primarily covered intervention and response strategies for extreme weather events, with 100% addressing the construction of supports, 99% on roof upgrades and reinforcements, and 93% on safe evacuation procedures In contrast, training related to sustainable livelihoods, including adjustments in farming and animal husbandry, was less prevalent, with only 44% of participants engaging in farming adjustment training and 35% in livestock adjustment training.
Associations like the Farmers' Union and Women's Union actively engage with the province by participating in annual training sessions, conferences, and meetings organized by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.
32 years old, Tan Ninh commune)
Training and propaganda courses have significant limitations, with only 22% of individuals able to access them, primarily officials rather than the general public The information disseminated by trained officials is crucial, yet it highlights a gap in direct access for the community During a recent class, discussions on gender roles emerged, illustrating how responses to disasters can differ, with men and women often assigned specific tasks.
Provincial training sessions are being conducted to address climate change, focusing on the impacts of phenomena like La Niña and El Niño Each commune will send 7-8 representatives, prioritizing those with the ability to engage and contribute While awareness of climate change exists, communication remains limited, and there is a need for practical training that encourages broader participation Local propaganda boards and guidance from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, along with foreign projects, play a role in this initiative It is essential to explore more effective methods for delivering quality training sessions that resonate with the community.
Figure 4.2: The limitation of training courses and seminars
● Perception and experience of climate change through extreme weather events and response behaviour
The study reveals a high awareness of extreme weather events, with 99% of respondents recognizing storms and 60% acknowledging droughts While current occurrences of hoarfrost, sea level rise, erosion, and earthquakes are not reported in the locality, residents believe these phenomena may become a reality in the future.
Residents of Duy Ninh commune exhibit a heightened awareness of climate change manifestations and express concerns about potential future impacts, unlike those in Tan Ninh, who concentrate on present occurrences This difference can be attributed to the geographical characteristics of Duy Ninh, which make it more susceptible to climate change and natural disasters, leading to greater fears and predictions among its inhabitants.
Recent years have highlighted the significant impact of climate change on natural disasters in our locality These extreme weather events are now not only influenced by natural factors but have also become stronger and more frequent due to climate change, resulting in greater damage and suffering for the affected communities.
Local communities are prioritizing adaptation measures to address climate change and extreme weather events Data indicates no significant differences in adaptation actions taken by women and men However, residents of Tan Ninh are less prepared compared to those in Duy Ninh, both in the number and variety of measures implemented This disparity is linked to the heightened awareness and concern among Duy Ninh residents regarding the impacts of climate change and the extreme weather events they have experienced.
Prior to extreme events and disasters, individuals implemented various measures to enhance their safety and preparedness These included reinforcing homes for stability (100%), constructing attics and elevating floors (99%), stockpiling food and drinking water (94%), and renovating or upgrading their residences (93%) Many also chose to evacuate to safer locations (92%) and prepare financial resources (90%) Additional actions included building embankments to combat erosion (80%), purchasing new boats (55%), developing irrigation systems (53%), and making adjustments to crops and livestock (45%) Furthermore, changes in livelihoods and jobs (29%), water sources (29%), farming locations (25%), and even migration (18%) were noted as part of their adaptive strategies.
After extreme events and disasters occurred, people in Duy Ninh commune changed their domestic water sources (12%), changed farming locations (2%), and changes in livelihoods and jobs (1%)
Recommendations to enhance the adaptive capacity of women and men to
4.3 Recommendations to enhance the adaptive capacity of women and men to climate change
Local authorities have received positive feedback for their efforts in mitigating climate change and disaster risks Nevertheless, to enhance the resilience of both women and men, the government must address certain areas for improvement.
To effectively support vulnerable communities facing climate change and natural disasters, there is a pressing need for enhanced policies that provide preferential interest rate loans Local residents, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, require increased access to financial assistance for home upgrades and livelihood improvements While existing programs through credit funds and the Policy Bank aim to facilitate borrowing, participation remains low, and the loan amounts offered are insufficient Families in need of larger loans or those lacking qualifying criteria often resort to commercial banks, which may require additional services like life insurance for loan approval Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize low-interest loan policies for families and groups with limited assets and no collateral, ensuring they receive the necessary financial support.
In today's digital age, local information channels are becoming essential for educating communities about climate change and natural disasters While traditional methods, such as ward speakers, remain in use, they often lack the technological advancements that could enhance information dissemination For example, Duy Ninh commune has adopted the Zalo application for communication, while Tan Ninh commune utilizes its official Facebook page By learning from each other's approaches, these communes can improve their information transmission as internet access continues to grow Additionally, implementing an emergency messaging system can further strengthen communication and warning efforts It is crucial to ensure that communication strategies are gender-sensitive, making information accessible to all, including women, men, and vulnerable groups, to foster inclusive adaptation actions.
Training programs require significant enhancement to be more effective Local communities report that while annual training sessions occur, they often lack gender responsiveness in terms of timing, location, and content There is a pressing need to increase the frequency of these classes to ensure that they are accessible not just to officials but to all community members Training materials should be simplified for better understanding, and participants should be given ample time for practical application Additionally, fostering adaptability among the population is essential for boosting local resilience to climate change.
To effectively implement support activities, it is crucial to develop gender-sensitive policies tailored to specific target audiences In the local context, women primarily engage in agriculture while men often migrate for factory work Therefore, training programs and support initiatives should prioritize women's groups and ensure their active participation Additionally, during emergency relief efforts in the wake of natural disasters, it is essential to address gender-specific needs and consider the unique circumstances of different target groups.
Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure that is accessible to everyone is essential Additionally, promoting scientific research and advanced weather forecasting will enhance our ability to adapt to climate change effectively.
4.3.2 Recommendation to socio-political organizations and others
For socio-political organizations, it is necessary to take advantage of the organization's resources and tasks to improve the ability to adapt to climate change for its members
The Women's Union plays a crucial role in empowering women by providing training on gender knowledge, helping them understand their roles, voices, and decision-making rights within their families and communities It is essential to broaden the topics covered in training sessions, particularly focusing on gender issues, climate change, and sustainable livelihoods As a representative body, the Women's Union articulates the views, needs, and aspirations of its members, facilitating support and action to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
The Farmers' Union plays a crucial role in supporting local communities whose primary livelihood depends on agriculture and nature, particularly as they face the challenges posed by climate change To address these issues, it is essential to implement technical training courses that focus on adapting farming and husbandry practices to the changing climate, while also introducing sustainable livelihood models tailored to the region In addition to providing seeds, the Farmers' Association must enhance its function as an information hub, facilitating communication, guidance, and connection among its members in the areas of breeding and farming, while also actively gathering and addressing the feedback and needs of its members.
Organizations like the Vietnam Fatherland Front, Veterans' Association, and Youth Union play a crucial role in supporting their members They must actively promote awareness and conduct training programs while ensuring that support activities are high-quality, inclusive of gender considerations, and tailored to the needs of their members Effective collaboration with local authorities and other entities is essential for the success of these support initiatives.
Banks implement special policies offering preferential interest rates on loans to support local communities impacted by climate change and natural disasters This financial assistance is crucial for enhancing the adaptability and resilience of these communities in the face of climate challenges.
Due to limited local resources, additional support from domestic and foreign NGOs is needed for projects, training related to climate change, finance and technology.