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Lorenzo-Pérez 2021 Thesis.pdf (1.45 MB)

ETD Abstract Container

Abstract Header

Planned Relocation of Informal Communities: challenges and complexities of selecting safe locations in hazardous environments

Lorenzo-Pérez, Monique A
http://orcid.org/0000-0001-7344-8154
http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1619005652293252

Abstract Details

2021, Master of City and Regional Planning, Ohio State University, City and Regional Planning.
Planned relocation, a managed retreat technique, is frequently discussed as an approach useful for improving the livelihoods of communities living in hazardous environments. However, in environments with highly vulnerable areas, such as informal communities, the relocation process may inadvertently uncover new risks, such as exposure to new types of hazards and disruption of community networks. Key issues surrounding the vulnerability of informal communities center on their exposure to environmental hazards, such as flooding, hurricanes, and other extreme weather conditions. To deal with these issues, relocation and resettlement activities have been carried out to minimize the risks associated with living in hazardous areas. However, despite the potential benefits of planned relocation, the movement of these communities opens up questions surrounding the larger decision-making and resettlement process and broader hazard exposure of informal communities. This research addresses these issues through an in-depth qualitative study of relocation and resettlement initiatives in informal communities in Puerto Rico. Additionally, flooding hazard risk maps of two communities that went through a planned relocation process are discussed. This thesis shows that informal communities' previous experiences with relocation and resettlement have harmed their trust towards retreat projects. Furthermore, based on hazard risk assessments and in-depth discussions with planners and Puerto Rico-based relevant experts knowledgeable of these processes, the results reveal that selecting safe locations for resettlement does not necessarily place communities out of natural hazards risk exposure.
Santina Contreras, PhD (Advisor)
Mattijs Van Maasakkers, PhD (Committee Member)
71 p.
Area Planning and Development; Caribbean Studies; Environmental Studies; Social Research; Urban Planning
Planned Relocation; Puerto Rico; Community Planning; Hazard Risk; Managed Retreat; Informal Communities; Informal Settlements

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Lorenzo-Pérez, M. A. (2021). Planned Relocation of Informal Communities: challenges and complexities of selecting safe locations in hazardous environments [Master's thesis, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1619005652293252

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Lorenzo-Pérez, Monique. Planned Relocation of Informal Communities: challenges and complexities of selecting safe locations in hazardous environments. 2021. Ohio State University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1619005652293252.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Lorenzo-Pérez, Monique. "Planned Relocation of Informal Communities: challenges and complexities of selecting safe locations in hazardous environments." Master's thesis, Ohio State University, 2021. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1619005652293252

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)

osu1619005652293252
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© 2021, all rights reserved.
This open access ETD is published by The Ohio State University and OhioLINK.