Managed retreat

Definition

Managed retreat is a strategy used in disaster risk management and climate adaptation, involving the planned relocation of people and infrastructure away from areas at high risk of flooding, erosion, or other climate-related hazards. This approach seeks to reduce vulnerability while acknowledging that some places may become uninhabitable due to changing environmental conditions, thus promoting sustainable land use and coastal resilience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Managed retreat is often seen as a last resort when other flood risk management strategies, like building levees or seawalls, are not viable or sustainable in the long term.
2. It involves community engagement and planning to ensure that the relocation process is equitable and considers the needs of vulnerable populations.
3. Managed retreat can provide ecological benefits by allowing ecosystems to recover or adapt to changing conditions, such as restoring wetlands or beaches.
4. Implementation of managed retreat can be complex, requiring coordination among various levels of government, stakeholders, and communities.
5. Examples of managed retreat can be found in areas affected by rising sea levels, such as certain coastal towns in the U.S. that have begun relocating homes and infrastructure inland.

Review Questions

• How does managed retreat differ from other flood risk management strategies?
  • Managed retreat differs from other flood risk management strategies by focusing on relocating communities and infrastructure rather than attempting to protect them through barriers like levees or seawalls. While traditional approaches aim to hold back water and prevent flooding, managed retreat acknowledges that some areas may no longer be safe for habitation due to ongoing environmental changes. This proactive strategy not only reduces risk but also allows for the restoration of natural landscapes that can provide additional protection against future hazards.
• Discuss the social implications of managed retreat for communities at risk from climate change.
  • The social implications of managed retreat can be significant for communities facing climate change. Relocating residents can disrupt social ties, cultural heritage, and local economies. It is crucial for planning processes to involve community voices to address concerns and ensure fairness during relocations. The strategy must consider vulnerable populations who might have fewer resources to adapt or relocate effectively, leading to questions about equity and justice in climate adaptation efforts.
• Evaluate the long-term sustainability of managed retreat as a strategy for addressing coastal resilience in the face of climate change.
  • Evaluating the long-term sustainability of managed retreat involves considering both ecological and socio-economic factors. On one hand, relocating vulnerable communities can enhance resilience by preventing future losses from climate impacts. Additionally, it allows for ecosystem restoration which can provide natural defenses against hazards. However, successful implementation requires careful planning, substantial investment in new infrastructure, and ongoing support for displaced individuals. Therefore, while managed retreat holds promise for sustainability, it must be executed thoughtfully to balance environmental benefits with human needs.

Related terms

climate adaptation: The process of adjusting practices, processes, and structures to minimize the damage caused by climate change and its effects.

coastal resilience: The ability of coastal communities and ecosystems to withstand and recover from environmental stressors like storms, sea-level rise, and flooding.

risk assessment: The systematic process of evaluating potential risks that could be involved in a projected activity or undertaking.