Home is Where the Heart Floats: Anchoring Legal Property Concepts for Environmental Migrants
摘要
Climate change-induced displacement is a growing global challenge. As sea levels rise and coastal areas become increasingly vulnerable, innovative solutions like floating structures have emerged as potential responses. This chapter explores the socio-legal implications of floating structures, focusing on their role in preserving and redefining the concept of ‘home’ for displaced communities. While traditional legal perspectives often prioritise property rights and regulatory frameworks, this chapter argues for a more holistic approach that considers the cultural, social, and psychological perceptions of home. By examining the diverse experiences of communities in the Solomon Islands and the American state of Florida, this chapter demonstrates how floating structures can provide not only physical shelter but also a sense of belonging and continuity. To ensure the successful implementation of floating structures, policymakers, legal professionals, and engineers must collaborate to develop comprehensive frameworks that balance individual property rights with communal needs. By prioritising the well-being of displaced populations and fostering sustainable development, we can realise the potential of floating structures to create resilient and equitable communities in the face of climate change.