Understanding Divergent Constructions of Vulnerability and Resilience: Climate Change Discourses in the German Cities of Lübeck and Rostock

Despite sharing similar geographic and climatic conditions, the German coastal cities of Lübeck and Rostock exhibit divergent perceptions of vulnerability and resilience to climate change. This discrepancy is attributed to their distinct historical and socio-economic contexts, with Rostock's past as part of the former GDR and subsequent marginalization influencing local knowledge about climate impacts. The study employs discourse analysis of news articles and expert interviews to reveal these idiosyncratic constructions, suggesting that social constructionism can provide a framework for understanding such differences. Additionally, it underscores the role of shared experiences like social marginalization in shaping climate change narratives.

Christmann, G. B., & Heimann, T. (2017). Understanding Divergent Constructions of Vulnerability and Resilience: Climate Change Discourses in the German Cities of Lübeck and Rostock. International Journal of Mass Emergencies & Disasters, 35(2), 120–143. https://doi.org/10.1177/028072701703500207