Modelling Adaptation to Climate Change among Small-Scale Fishermen in Bengkulu Province in Indonesia

Climate change poses severe challenges to small-scale fisheries, which require critical adaptation strategies.This study developed a model of climate change adaptation among small-scale fishermen in Bengkulu Province, Indonesia, using a framework that links poverty, livelihood vulnerability, and adaptive capacity.This study contributes novel empirical evidence on how these factors interact to shape adaptive behavior in small-scale fisheries within a developing country context.Data was collected from a survey of 700 fishing households selected by quota sampling.The direct and indirect relationships among socioeconomic variables and adaptation strategies were examined using path analysis in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS).The findings revealed that poverty had a significantly adverse effect on the adaptive capacity of fishermen, limiting their capability to respond effectively to climate stressors.Consequently, a majority of fishermen relied on low-cost and easily implemented strategies, such as adjusting fishing times and shifting fishing grounds.Fishing experience, vessel capacity, fishing distance, and the type of fishing gear, in contrast, showed significantly positive effects on adaptation.These results underscore that economic constraints weaken adaptive capacity, while technical assets and practical knowledge enhance resilience.The policy implications highlighted the imperative to strengthen fishermen's institutions, update fleets, establish cooperatives, diversify fishing gear, and provide accessible digital climate information services.Such governmental interventions are crucial for enhancing adaptive capacity, supporting the sustainable management of fisheries, and improving the economic resilience of coastal communities.