Understanding the Climate Vulnerability and Resilience of People with Disabilities: Insights from a Case Study in Kerala, India
In an article published in Global Environmental Change, DICARP researchers report key finding of a qualititative case-study of the lived experience of climate vulnerability and resilience for persons with disabilities in the state of Kerala, India.
This article examines how people with disabilities in the state of Kerala, India experience and respond to the impacts of climate change, drawing on 72 semi-structured interviews with disabled individuals, caregivers, and key stakeholders. Although Kerala has comparatively strong social development indicators and has taken steps toward disability-inclusive climate and disaster planning, our findings reveal persistent social, economic, and institutional barriers that heighten climate vulnerability for people with disabilities. Participants described how inaccessible early-warning systems, evacuation procedures, emergency shelters, and relocation programs intensify exposure to climate hazards and limit their ability to respond effectively. Longer-term structural factors, including poverty, inadequate housing, limited access to assistive devices and medical care, and discriminatory attitudes, further constrain their adaptive capacity. Using a social-relational model of disability, the article shows how ableism intersects with other inequalities to shape exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity in the face of climate risks. At the same time, the study highlights the agency and expertise of disabled individuals, who engage in creative adaptation strategies, mutual aid, and other forms of community support, strengthening resilience within and beyond the disability community. The article argues for disability-inclusive and universally designed solutions across multiple sectors relevant to climate resilience and underscores the importance of centering disabled people’s knowledge in adaptation planning.
Easy-to-read summary:
This article is about people with disabilities who live in Kerala, a place in India. It looks at how they deal with big changes in the weather, like floods and storms.
The researchers talked to many people with disabilities, their caregivers, and others who help in the community.
Even though Kerala tries to be a good place for people and has some plans to help everyone during disasters, the study found that people with disabilities still face many problems. It can be hard for them to get warnings about danger, leave their homes safely, or find places to stay during emergencies.
Many also do not have enough money, safe homes, medical help, or tools they need to move or communicate. Some people treat them unfairly, which makes things even harder.
But the study also shows something very important: people with disabilities are strong and creative. They find ways to help themselves and each other, like sharing support and working together in their communities.
The article says that everyone should plan for disasters in ways that include all people, especially those with disabilities. It also says we should listen to what people with disabilities know and think, because they can help make better plans for everyone.