Measuring people's preferences for cyclone vulnerability reduction measures in Bangladesh

Purpose - This paper aims to examine people's preferences for alternative cyclone vulnerability reduction measures in cyclone prone areas of Bangladesh. Design/methodology/approach - A choice experiment (CE) method has been implemented based on the pressure and release (PAR) vulnerability model. Data were collected from a sample of households in two districts of Bangladesh in winter 2008. Findings - The results of a choice experiment (CE) method conducted in selected areas of Bangladesh prone to cyclone hazards indicated that access to resources is viewed as the most influential factor in cyclone vulnerability reduction options. Findings support the pressure and release model (PAR) of vulnerability analysis. Access to training and education and cyclone warning systems are also found to have significant impacts on households' choices of cyclone vulnerability reduction. Structural mitigation measures and access to power and decision making, though significant, were found to have the least impact. Research limitations/implications - The paper shows that the choice experiment method is a good technique for understanding people's preferences for vulnerability reduction measures. Practical implications - The paper concludes with a policy recommendation for governmental and non-governmental agencies to focus on vulnerability reduction measures that tackle the root causes of vulnerability. Originality/value - This is the first time that the choice experiment method has been used for cyclone vulnerability analysis, and it provides quantitative supports for the PAR model.