Asset or liability? Aquaculture in a natural disaster prone area

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the role of aquaculture in improving a familys ability to cope with disasters like cyclones. Small-scale aquaculture is expanding in deltas globally. This work, therefore, seeks to better understand the role of such household assets in one particularly vulnerable region; coastal Bangladesh. Benefits and the potential contribution of aquaculture towards surviving after a catastrophe are explored. That is to say, the objective of this study is to assess whether aquaculture is an asset or a liability for people living in disaster-prone coastal areas. The multifaceted roles of aquaculture assets are elucidated, including their contribution towards food and income security. Recommendations for improved management and disaster preparedness are presented in a bid to enhance the ability of rural communities to cope with such disasters