Navigating risk: A holistic framework for supporting rural livelihoods adaptation in Solomon Islands

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Development Studies
• Social Science

Background:

• Existing frameworks for rural adaptation often adopt narrow disciplinary perspectives.
• Climate-focused approaches overlook crucial non-climatic hazards and socio-economic factors influencing vulnerability.
• A comprehensive understanding of risk is essential for effective adaptation strategies in rural communities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and validate the Livelihoods-Based Risk Profiling Framework (LRPF) for supporting rural livelihoods adaptation.
• To integrate climatic and non-climatic risks with socio-economic factors for a holistic risk assessment.
• To develop decision-support tools that enhance adaptation planning and stakeholder alignment.

Main Methods:

• A participatory mixed-methods approach was employed, combining focus group workshops and household surveys.
• Risk assessment was conducted across three rural communities in Western Province, Solomon Islands.
• Data analysis produced livelihood risk profiles, vulnerability index tables, and risk interaction diagrams.

Main Results:

• The LRPF successfully identified priority adaptation initiatives by pinpointing key risk drivers.
• Decision-support tools demonstrated the framework's utility in addressing complex risks.
• The framework facilitated better alignment between community needs and external stakeholder interventions.

Conclusions:

• The LRPF provides a robust and holistic approach to adaptation planning for rural livelihoods.
• By integrating diverse risk factors, the framework enhances community resilience and sustainability.
• The LRPF supports evidence-based decision-making for more effective adaptation outcomes.