Rivera, Ian (2024) Heat and Justice: Assessing Urban Vulnerability and Climate Adaptation in Los Angeles. Master thesis.
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Abstract
This thesis investigates the intraurban vulnerability to extreme heat in Los Angeles, focusing on the San Fernando Valley. Examining two areas, Arleta – Pacoima and Encino – Tarzana to understand how historical, socio-economic, and biophysical factors influence vulnerability to extreme heat. To explore the situation theories of vulnerability, urban climate justice, and maladaptation are utilized as they each impact extreme heat. Using a triangulation approach by combining policy document analysis, GIS analysis, and semi-structured interviews to assess existing conditions and adaptation strategies. The findings reveal significant disparities between the two neighborhoods. Arleta – Pacoima, a predominantly minority and lower-income area, showed greater vulnerability due to historical redlining, disinvestment, and inadequate infrastructure. GIS analysis depicted higher rates of poverty, health conditions exacerbated by extreme heat, and lower educational attainment in this area compared to the Encino – Tarzana area. Encino – Tarzana, a more affluent and predominantly white area depicted lower vulnerability, better infrastructure, and more green spaces. Through policy analysis, gaps between legislative intentions and real-world outcomes were highlighted. Although policies like Senate Bill 1000 and CF 22-156: Climate Action and Adaptation Plan in the City’s General Plan stress equity and recognitional justice, their implementation often does not address the needs of the most vulnerable communities. These gaps were emphasized by local government and community organizations, pointing to insufficient administrative support and the need for more inclusive adaptation strategies. This research concludes that intraurban vulnerability in Los Angeles is driven by governmental structure, historical redlining, and disinvestment in minority neighborhoods. Emphasizing that recognitional justice is crucial in shaping equitable adaptation strategies to avoid recreating existing inequalities.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Master) |
|---|---|
| Degree programme: | Society, Sustainability and Planning (MSc Socio-spatial Planning) |
| Supervisor: | Turhan, E. |
| Date Deposited: | 22 Jul 2024 10:46 |
| Last Modified: | 22 Jul 2024 10:46 |
| URI: | https://frw.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/4641 |
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