Climate change is increasingly threatening food security and nutrition, particularly for communities already facing poverty, inequality and limited access to resources. While much climate adaptation work focuses on agricultural productivity, the impacts on dietary diversity, nutrition and vulnerable groups often receive less attention.
The Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment for Food Security and Nutrition is a practical, community-led methodology developed by World Vision Ireland, World Vision Tanzania, World Vision Solomon Islands and the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED). It helps communities understand how climate change affects the foods they grow, buy and consume, and supports them to develop locally owned solutions that strengthen resilience, food security and nutrition.
Using participatory approaches and separate focus groups for women, men, young people and children, the assessment ensures that the experiences and priorities of all community members are heard. It places particular emphasis on understanding how climate risks affect different groups in different ways and identifying inclusive adaptation actions that address these challenges.
How the Assessment Works
The assessment follows four simple, interconnected exercises:
- Food, Diet and Cultural Preferences Analysis
Identifies the main foods consumed within the community, levels of nutritional knowledge, consumption patterns and cultural preferences. - Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment
Examines how climate hazards such as drought, flooding, heavy rainfall, strong winds and pests affect key food sources, while exploring current coping strategies and future adaptation options. - Gender and Social Inclusion Analysis
Explores decision-making around food production, preparation and consumption, highlighting barriers and opportunities faced by women, men, young people and children. - Nutrition-Sensitive Community Adaptation Planning
Brings all groups together to agree on practical actions, responsibilities and timelines for improving food security, nutrition and climate resilience.
Why It Matters
The assessment bridges the gap between climate adaptation, food security, nutrition and social inclusion. By combining these areas into a single process, communities can identify the most pressing risks to their food systems while developing solutions that are practical, equitable and locally owned.
Designed for use by communities, governments, NGOs, research institutions and development partners, the methodology supports more effective, nutrition-sensitive climate action and helps ensure that adaptation efforts leave no one behind.
Download the guide to learn how communities can assess climate risks, strengthen food security and co-create adaptation plans that support healthier, more resilient futures for all.