Social and cultural incentives and obstacles to adaptation to increased coastal flooding in East Boston, MA USA

Abstract

East Boston, Massachusetts is a coastal community in the northeastern USA that faces a growing threat from coastal storm surge flooding due to rising sea levels. Due to its relatively low income levels, large number of recent immigrants, and current environmental stresses, it is also a community suffering from environmental injustice. As complicated as adaptation to climate change may be, it is even more complicated when looking at the particularly complex situation of environmental justice. In this community it is found that the community did not have an adaptation perspective or knowledge of any resources that could assist them in this challenge. The residents also seem to have little power over the management of their community with the result that adaptation decisions may be made by processes, institutions and individuals from outside the community. All adaptation options have some disincentives for them; with high costs being common to all. Their cultural knowledge also limits their viewpoints on alternatives. Participants believe they need more information on climate change, how it will impact them, and what resources are available to assist them. Incentives for adaptation include a very broad ranging, accepting view of climate change impacts, commitment to their communities, eagerness to continue learning about climate change, and recognition that there is the need for an integrated regional flood management planning process that is stakeholder driven.