Human mObility and cliMate change in the European context (HOME)

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Despite the growing body of research on climate-induced mobility, much of the focus remains on the Global South, leaving European cases underrepresented. This geographical bias persists even as extreme weather events and slow-onset climate impacts increasingly displace communities in European countries every year. Portugal provides critical insights into this gap, with two case studies exploring sea level rise, coastal erosion, and wildfires.

In Pedrinhas and Cedovém (Esposende municipality), the advancing sea caused by coastal erosion and sea level rise (SLR) has compelled local authorities to devise plans for relocating residents from these increasingly vulnerable coastal areas to safer locations. However, the relocation has been met with malcontent and disagreement from the affected communities. This case underscores the challenges of planned retreat and sheds light on the stories and perspectives of those who, for different reasons, want to stay despite the risk.

The second case explores human mobility in wildfire-prone regions (Pinhal Interior Norte), emphasizing the interplay of rural abandonment, wildfire risks, and demographic shifts. Rural depopulation has exacerbated vulnerabilities by leaving landscapes unmanaged, while some residents choose to remain despite escalating dangers. Simultaneously, others move into these areas for affordability and lifestyle.

Combining environmental mobility and political ecology approaches, this work bridges local experiences with global discussions. By examining both slow- and sudden-onset events, the project advances understanding of climate-induced mobility, offering actionable insights for resilient and inclusive adaptation strategies in Europe. The findings will contribute to addressing the geographical bias in climate mobility research and inform policies that can strengthen disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation in Europe.