Contextualising potential zones for ecosystem-based adaptation in Lower Northern Thailand: A mixed method analysis...

Ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) has been accepted widely in integrating climate adaptation with water resources management, yet the pilot study of this issue is understudied in small urban areas of Thailand. This research addresses climate induced variability affecting water-related disasters and ecosystem degradation, as well as analyses potential zones in supporting EbA initiatives by the blue-green infrastructures (BGIs) in Si Samrong District located at the Yom River basin's floodplain, Lower Northern Thailand. Using a mixed method analysis in portraying the possibility of EbA, correlation analysis is applied to illustrate relationships among rainfall, temperature, and runoff from both on-ground statistical and climate modelling information under climate variability. Questionnaire survey with 405 respondents and focus group discussions with 68 local representatives in seven sub-districts were conducted quantitatively and qualitatively to understand water and environmental-related conditions affecting livelihoods and local demands for EbA initiatives. Overlay analysis by GIS and field survey are also adopted to analyse potential areas for EbA based on main and supporting factors in physical and socio-economic dimensions for initiating five BGIs. Then, suitable areas were classified and grouped as potential zones. Results indicate that climate variability exists in both scientific evidence and local perceptions; however, they perceive this variability through uncertainties on water resources, agriculture, daily living, health impacts, and the ecosystem. This circumstance requires tailor-made selection and implementation of BGIs for promoting water equilibrium, rehabilitating ecosystem, and building resilience for livelihoods based on urban complexities in a small town. In this regard, five potential zones are created with different conditions in achieving EbA initiatives.