Awareness and Vulnerability to Climate Change among Coastal Communities in Ghana: The Case of Dansoman of the Greater Accra Region
Isaac Sarfo *
Department of Environment and Biotechnology, Nha Trang University, Vietnam.
Jude Issa Dontoh
Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Italy.
Henry Otchwemah
Institute of Green Growth Solutions, Accra, Ghana.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Policy-makers, development-practitioners, international organizations and academic scholars have over the years taken stern initiatives to tackle climate change issues. Climate adaptation along with various commitments and political will have given much weight to a growing concern of treating this global phenomenon with urgency. This study sought to determine the level of awareness and vulnerability to climate change and knowledge among coastal households and officials in Dansoman, within the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. The study adapted both qualitative and quantitative research strategies in data collection, analysis and presentation. Response from informants constituting officials from various institutions and vulnerable groups in the area were subjected to descriptive analytical statistics. Findings show high level of climate awareness among respondents but low level of knowledge on climate change issues. Results show that the majority of the respondents believe that climate change related issues and impacts are very serious and need urgent attention to avoid severe consequences on key economic sectors and food security. The researcher believes that the study will serve as a baseline exploratory study to inform decision on enhancing environmental education and campaign programs in the study area.
Keywords: Climate change, climate awareness, vulnerability, coastal communities, economic sectors, food security, traditional rights.