Exploring loss and damage from climate change and global perspectives that influence response mechanism in vulnerable communities

ABSTRACT

Climate change has led to unprecedented environmental and socio-economic challenges globally, especially in vulnerable communities. Loss and damage refer to the residual effects of climate change, where adaptation and mitigation measures may not be enough to prevent adverse impacts. This study examines the impact of loss and damage caused by climate change in the Lower Niger River region of Nigeria and the influence of global perspectives on the region. The research adopted a mixed-methods approach, including a survey of 198 households and 13 interviews with key stakeholders. Furthermore, an open-source terra climate data of precipitation, runoff, and temperature covering a 30-year period (1990–2020) sourced from Climate Research Unit (CRU) dataset and analysed to show distribution of trends and patterns in climate variables. Similarly, we conducted a land use land cover change (1990–2020) to ascertain the level of changes. Findings from the study have revealed that the anthropogenic factors contribute to hydrological changes in the Lower Niger River Region and these changes result in climatic disasters like flooding which cause severe loss and damage of livelihood including loss of agricultural productivity, fisheries, and accessibility. While global efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change are important, the study uncovers that the influence of global perspectives on the Lower Niger River Region is often limited by factors such as unequal power dynamics, insufficient funding, and a lack of local ownership of initiatives. The study suggests the need for sustainable land management, resolution of farmers/headers conflict and increased awareness as measures in addressing loss and damage.

KEYWORDS:

• climate change
• loss
• damage
• global perspectives

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

The data that supports the findings of this study are available upon request. Due to the sensitive nature of the data collected, which includes personal information and community-level data from vulnerable populations, restrictions apply to the public availability of the dataset. However, researchers who wish to access the data for valid research purposes may contact the corresponding author to request access.

The primary data consist of qualitative interviews conducted with farmers and community leaders to gain insights into how their coping strategies influence global perspectives on loss and damage.

These data capture valuable insights, experiences, and perspectives of the participants regarding the impacts of climate change and the response mechanisms employed in their communities. For the survey, a total of 198 households were selected and surveyed using a structured questionnaire.

Due to the sensitive nature of the data, which includes personal information and potentially identifying details, it cannot be made publicly available. However, researchers interested in accessing the primary data for legitimate research purposes can contact the corresponding author [provide contact information] to request access. Any requests will be subject to review to ensure compliance with ethical considerations, privacy protection, and data sharing agreements.

The secondary data was sourced through an open-source terra climate data of precipitation and temperature covering a 30-year period (1990 –2020) was sourced from Climate Research Unit (CRU) dataset and analysed using R programming to show trend and pattern. Additionally, we obtained relevant information from report, academic studies, government publication and other sources within the manuscript.

To facilitate transparency and reproducibility, the manuscript includes a comprehensive description of the methodologies employed for data collection, data cleaning, and data analysis. This information enables readers to understand the research process and the basis for the presented findings.

We recognize the importance of data sharing and the potential for collaboration and further research in this field. However, we also respect the privacy and confidentiality of the research participants and the communities involved. Therefore, access to the primary data will be granted in a manner that upholds ethical standards and protects the rights of the individuals and communities who contributed to this study.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.