Navigating risk: A holistic framework for supporting rural livelihoods adaptation in Solomon Islands

Abstract

This paper presents the Livelihoods-Based Risk Profiling Framework (LRPF) to support rural livelihoods adaptation in Western Province, Solomon Islands. Our framework addresses narrow disciplinary perspectives to provide a more comprehensive understanding of risks to rural livelihoods. We expand previous climate-focused frameworks by incorporating non-climatic hazards and key socio-economic factors that influence vulnerability. We employed a participatory mixed-methods approach using focus group workshops and household surveys to assess risk across three rural communities. The data were analysed to produce decision support tools including livelihood risk profiles, vulnerability index tables, and risk interaction diagrams. These tools identified priority adaptation initiatives targeting key risk drivers, demonstrating the LRPF’s capacity to support communities in addressing complex risks and aiding external stakeholders to better align their interventions with local realities. By adopting a holistic perspective, the LRPF can enhance the robustness of adaptation planning, leading to more effective and sustainable adaptation outcomes for rural livelihoods.