Adapting to Rising Tides – Addressing Social Vulnerability and Equity in Climate Change Adaptation Planning in the San Francisco Bay Area

Designed to inform the Adapting to Rising Tides project (ART) being led by the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission, the purpose of the white paper is to integrate social equity into adaptation planning for sea level rise and storm events. The report describes a social vulnerability assessment completed for the study area and the results; presents case studies which integrate equity into adaptation planning; and provides decision support tools and recommendations to inform social equity and coastal planning for the San Francisco Bay Area of California.

The report outlines the ART vulnerability assessment for a subregion of the Bay Area, which considers physical, social and economic assets, and how this area can become more resilient to climate change. Beginning with a historical analysis of emergency and recovery response planning in California and beyond, the white paper outlines the importance of rooting climate change solutions in the needs of local communities and local challenges, whether that include translation/interpretation services, transportation resources that can accommodate large families and residents with medical needs, and/or inclusive care for pets.