| dc.description.abstract | This study examined residents’ responses to the government-proposed new road plan for the rural Township Guansi of Taiwan. Main dispute about road plan is its potential impacts on functions of farmlands that characterize the traditional township and its cultural landscape. On research design, we first constructed a conceptual framework on Exposure-Sensitivity-Adaptability-Response （ESAR） causal relationship. Based on the framework, semi-structured interviews were conducted in sensitive communities potentially exposed to future road construction addressing both built-environmental sensitivity and residents’ adaptability.
In addition, remote sensing technology was used to identify the urban sprawl that leads to this environmental change. As a result, throughout interview analysis classified by both natural capital （land, water and wildlife） and human capital （experience, health, and network）, Township Guanxi showed preparedness for a changing environment caused by road plan.
We argue that risk perceptions play a crucial role in organizing residents’ inaction, resistance, and adaptation to environmental change. Environmental movements are underscored in promoting further political transition. We conclude that the current experience of locals with the road plan provides insights into adaptive behavior of the local Hakka people on dealing with future environmental change while recognizing the need of economic development. | en_US |