The Center for Coastal Climate Resilience (CCCR) at UC Santa Cruz advances research and action to address the growing risks of climate change along our coasts. As natural disasters intensify and development pressures mount, CCCR researchers champion Nature-based Solutions (NbS) that harness the power of ecosystems—such as wetlands, mangroves, and reefs—to reduce flooding, erosion, and other climate impacts while delivering lasting social and economic benefits.
The Center’s work integrates risk assessment, economic valuation, and incentive design to strengthen investment in natural systems that protect both people and nature. Equally vital is CCCR’s focus on effective communication—bridging the gap between scientific research and public understanding through art, visualization, and collaboration with policymakers and communities.
By partnering directly with the coastal communities most affected by climate change, CCCR promotes community-engaged adaptation, ensuring that those with the fewest resources have the tools, knowledge, and support to build resilience and thrive in a changing climate.