Despite uncertainties, climate change has a significant impact on various places and communities. Risk and vulnerability vary depending on factors such as location, wealth, age, gender, education, and risk perception.

💡 Real-World Example: Low-lying islands like Kiribati and the Maldives are vulnerable to sea level rise, resulting in increased coastal erosion, saline intrusion into groundwater supplies, and possible out-migration of people due to loss of income.

Vulnerability to climate change involves three main components:

• Exposure: Degree to which people are exposed to climate change.
• Sensitivity: Degree to which they could be harmed by this exposure.
• Adaptive Capacity: Degree to which they could mitigate potential harm by reducing exposure or sensitivity.

💡 Real-World Example: Indigenous people like the Inuit in Canada who have adapted their lifestyles to their environment are particularly vulnerable. Changes in their environment due to climate change have led to ecological shifts affecting their food sources and livelihoods.

Certain population groups, such as the young, elderly, those with disabilities, the poor, minority groups, refugees, and indigenous people are more vulnerable. Institutions like emergency services, schools, and political organizations may also be at risk.

Some locations are more at risk than others. This includes low-lying islands, coastal areas, and regions deriving water from mountain glaciers.