In conjunction with the Urban Adaptation Assessment, the ND-GAIN team is preparing a literature review, which suggests the assessment focus on the underlying factors of vulnerability rather than demographic groups.

ABSTRACT

While many climate risk assessment tool emphasizes demographic vulnerability, referring population groups such as the elderly, the female, the racial minorities as the most vulnerable population to climate change, the practice of normalizing vulnerability among these groups can be misleading. The literature review suggests that assessments should focus on the underlying factors of vulnerability rather than demographic groups. The review finds that most of the vulnerability to multiple climate hazard stem from poverty and social isolation. Financial aid or economic empowerment is one crucial way to help reduce vulnerability of any demographic group.