Vulnerability to Resilience: Climate Adaptation Strategies for Fisherfolk along the Kerala Coast

Vulnerability is determined by the level of exposure, the sensitivity to external stimuli, and a system's capacityto manage adverse impacts (IPCC, 2007). Coastal areas are vulnerable to erosion, flooding from storm surges,saltwater intrusion, inundation, and rising sea levels (Amadore et al.,1996). Amidst the unprecedented problemsposed by climate change, certain communities-like the fishing communities are more closely associated with thepatterns of environmental shifts. These coastal communities are particularly vulnerable to disturbances causedby climate change because, they rely on the delicate balance of oceanic eco systems. Rising sea levels, changingocean currents and erratic weather patterns have had a major negative influence on the millions of people whodepend on fishing for their daily food. It also poses threat to the sustainability of marine resources. Adapting toclimate change has been a primary focus of the majority of Climate Change Action Plans (Smith et al. 2011).This article explores the critical area of climate adaptation plans that can be adapted to the distinct requirementsand vulnerabilities of global fishermen. Based on an abundance of factual data, case studies and communityviewpoints, this study aims to analyze the effect of climate change but more significantly to identify and assessthe wide range of adaptation tactics that can be used by fishermen.