Flood Perceptions, Social Capital, and Public Support for Property Buyout Programs

As the impacts of climate change intensify, a growing number of people will be exposed to hazards such as sea-level rise. In many areas, sea-level rise will cause increased flooding and repeated property damage, including homes and businesses. It is expected that many will become “climate migrants” as they begin to relocate from areas repeatedly affected by climate change-induced events. Indeed, some governments are beginning to consider buyout programs, in which the government purchases private property that has been damaged or is at risk of repeated damage. However, little research has examined public support for buyout programs. In this paper, we draw on an original survey of South Carolina residents to examine their support for a state government buyout program. Specifically, we examine buyout support in relation to past flood experience, satisfaction with local infrastructure, social capital, and demographic factors.