Adaptation Strategies to Climate Change in Coastal Communities of Ambon City, Indonesia

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Abstract

     Climate change has significantly impacted coastal communities in Ambon City, leading to coastal erosion, tidal flooding, and declining fish catches. This study analyzed adaptation strategies employed by coastal communities using a socio-ecological approach. The research employed a qualitative case study method, including field observations, in-depth interviews, and geospatial analysis. Data were collected from several coastal areas in Ambon City and were analyzed using the Social-Ecological System (SES) model to understand community adaptation patterns. The findings revealed that communities implement three main adaptation strategies: (1)physical adaptation, such as constructing seawalls and rehabilitating coastal ecosystems; (2) economic adaptation through livelihood diversification, including ecotourism and small-scale enterprises; and (3) social adaptation, involving institutional strengthening and environmental education. The integration of technology, such as early warning systems and ecology-based aquaculture, plays a crucial role in enhancing community resilience. Collaboration among communities, the government, and other stakeholders is essential for developing more sustainable adaptation policies. This study recommends a more holistic, community-based approach to strengthen the resilience of coastal communities in Ambon City against the ongoing impacts of climate change.

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