Earticle

This study was conducted for the purpose of developing vulnerability assessment indices to climate change, classifying climate change vulnerability types among municipalities of JeollaNam-do and outlining adaptive actions. The definition of vulnerability developed by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change(IPCC) is utilized to create the vulnerability indicators of exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity. Vulnerability characteristics are divided into 4 types according to exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity indicators. The results show that Damyang, Gokseong, Gurye, Goheung, Boseong, Jangheung, Gangjin, Hampyeong, Yeonggwang, Jangseong, Wando and Shinan belong to Type 1. Type 1 is high exposure index, low sensitivity and adaptive capacity indices. The Type 2 areas of Mokpo, Yeosu and Suncheon are the areas where exposure index is low, sensitivity and adaptive capacity indices are high. Type 3 includes areas such as Muan and Jindo where high exposure and sensitivity indices and low adaptive capacity index. And Naju, Gwangyang, Hwasun, Haenam and Yeongam belong to Type 4. Type 4 indicates the areas that are high exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity indices. The type analysis could be used as useful tools in setting adaptation policies and other policies in municipalities. Finally, this study proposes propulsive strategies to enhance the adaptive abilities for climate change according to exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity indices.