Assessing the vulnerability of cities to climate change: A new index proposal for Türkiye cities

On a global scale, as cities continue to grow and climate change brings increasing hazards, the vulnerability and risk levels for cities are also rising. Assessing the risk and vulnerability of urban areas has become more vital now than in previous decades. In this context, the climate–adaptive city approach is gaining importance alongside sustainable development. Türkiye’s geographical location is considered one of the most vulnerable regions in terms of climate change, due to decreasing precipitation and rising temperatures. In the literature, some studies primarily evaluate the full range of risks associated with climate change, while others develop a climate–adaptive city approach that focuses on a single risk. However, the consequences of climate change vary across regions and countries. In this study, the vulnerability of cities to climate change is discussed separately for each risk. Vulnerability criteria are considered separately for drought, sea-level rise, heavy rainfall, and extreme heat. For each risk, indicators of the impact, pressure, vulnerability, resistance, and adaptive capacity that contribute to the risk are identified. Methodologically, relevant studies in the literature were compiled, previous studies were utilized in determining the indicator, and new indicators were developed. As a result, a holistic approach has been developed to assess the vulnerability of cities to climate change across all risks. This makes it possible to identify both how cities remain unprepared for the consequences and risks of climate change and, on the other hand, the climate–adaptive aspects of cities. This study is intended to contribute to researchers working on urban resilience as well as to urban municipalities. In conclusion, a guiding index has been put forward to inform planning and decision-making processes for the creation of a climate–adaptive city.