Climate change, adaptation pathways, and mitigation measures in coastal Karnataka: socio-ecological perspectives from marine fishing communities

Gills, Reshma and Padua, Shelton and Ramachandran, C and Thomas, Sujitha and Rajesh, K M and Harshitha, R and Varghese, Eldho and Vivekanandan, E and Ratheesh Kumar, R and George, Grinson (2025) Climate change, adaptation pathways, and mitigation measures in coastal Karnataka: socio-ecological perspectives from marine fishing communities. Proceedings of the Indian National Science Academy. pp. 1-20.

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Abstract

Climate change poses acute risks to India’s coastal ecosystems and livelihoods, with marine fishing communities among the most vulnerable. This study assessed fishers’ perceptions of climate impacts, adaptation, and mitigation along Karnataka’s Karavali coast using an ex-post facto survey of 312 respondents across three districts. Results show that 94% observed climate change, citing shoreline erosion, cyclones, and heat waves as major hazards. Livelihood impacts included asset losses and an average reduction of 28 fishing days annually. Adaptation strategies emphasized mangrove conservation, saving money, changing fishing locations, and indigenous knowledge, with capacity-building and diversification emerged as key priorities. Mitigation was generally perceived as a medium priority, with strong support for renewable energy solutions such as solar panels (88.8%) and cleaner fuels like LPG (43.3%), but limited backing for fleet restrictions. The study highlights the need for participatory, locally tailored policies that integrate ecological restoration, technological innovation, livelihood diversification, and disaster preparedness to strengthen the resilience of Karnataka’s fishing communities.

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