The scientific study identifies coastal and marine areas of Costa Rica that are particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts. The vulnerability analysis combined three factors: exposure, potential impacts and the adaptive capacity of communities to respond to these impacts. Through these three factors the climatic threats of sea level rise, atmospheric temperature rise and changes in precipitation patterns were evaluated to identify vulnerability. The analysis supports the prioritization of climate change adaptation actions for protected areas and districts of local communities. These actions include the recovery of key habitats such as riparian forests, mangrove forests, beach terraces and the relocation of touristic trails close to the beach within the protected areas.
- Available scientific information.
- Technical and financial support to address the process
Vulnerability to climate change varies widely in the study area and is closely related to human and economic development. The study found that implementation of possible adaptation measures must begin with changes in development patterns and the reduction of existing pressures on the ecosystem, otherwise known as non-climatic threats. The study also found that poor resource extraction practices and the establishment of coastal settlements increase the sensitivity of ecosystems and the exposure of coastal communities.