Measuring and analyzing the vulnerability of local communities in front of the climate change (Case study: Ghasr-e- Shirin District)

Nowadays, the adverse effects of climate change and its damaging effects have become an environmental, social and economic problem. Assessing the vulnerability of local communities to climate change as an important step in identifying effective mechanisms and prioritizing management will be enhancing flexibility and increasing adaptability. This research is field-survey research, performed by using field observation and completing a vulnerability questionnaire to climate change in three villages of Aghabarar, Seyyed Ayaz, and Seyyed Ahmad in Qasrshirin city. The study was based on the vulnerability indexes such as exposure, sensitivity, and adaptation capacity. Questionnaires were completed among the target groups, which were finally analyzed using statistical tests such as the analysis of variance, Fisher, and Levin. The results showed that the components of exposure, sensitivity, and economy in Qasr Shirin city were vulnerable. Also, there was no significant difference between the three villages in a dry climate, and the vulnerability of Aghabarar village was 3.43, Seyyed Ahmad village was 3.30, and Seyyed Ayaz village with a value of 3.13 was higher than the average value of vulnerability. Also, Seyyed Ahmad village had the highest level of environmental vulnerability in the face of climate change with a value of 4.1. The vulnerability of exposure components and sensitivity is due to climatic events, geographical location, and dependence of local communities on natural resources and climate. Also, the high vulnerability of the economic component is due to the poverty and lack of physical capital of the communities. The vulnerability of the three components of exposure, susceptibility, and economics has caused the vulnerability of the communities studied. These factors affect the compatibility of local communities and countries, their willingness, or ability to adapt. The government with local involvement can effectively respond to the negative effects of climate change as well.