In response to the proliferation of ‘climate migration’ discourses, researchers are exploring how
climate related hazards affect immobile populations. This paper contributes to the conceptualisation
of ‘environmental immobility’. Researchers from geography, public health, psychology, and law
explore the climate change immobility ...
In response to the proliferation of ‘climate migration’ discourses, researchers are exploring how
climate related hazards affect immobile populations. This paper contributes to the conceptualisation
of ‘environmental immobility’. Researchers from geography, public health, psychology, and law
explore the climate change immobility nexus via three themes: 1. risk; 2. (mal)adaptation, and 3.
resilience, protection, and vulnerability. The aim of this paper is to identify and discuss the key
concepts and rationale for scholars and policymakers who consider both ‘voluntary’ and ‘involuntary’
immobility when researching and responding to the effects of climate change on human movement.
The need is critical, as immobility is often underacknowledged as a desirable, pro-active, and practical
response to environmental change, preventing large populations from being considered and included
in policy, consultation and support processes.