Author(s): Venkateshwara, S Gajavelli
In this study an attempt is made to understand the susceptibility of informal economy to the risks arising from climate change. The purpose of the study is to examine the recent literature and suggest a conceptual framework to understand the existing theory and the developing applications. The existing works broadly fall into four constituents and try to understand (a) the positive impact of technology adoption on MSMEs, their resilience and response in the post-Covid-19 crisis, (b) transformation drivers, technology selection, and ways to help augment MSMEs’ resilience and responsiveness in the context of post-Covid-19 crisis, (c) gendered bias, discrimination and vulnerability in the time of climate change, and (d) climate change impacts, SME adaptation, and government-sponsored sustainable mitigation measures. The present study broadly focus on (a) Feasible conceptual framework and discussion around ‘informal economy, financial risk and climate change’ to approach the additional risks arising out of climate change risk, Covid-19, and conflict for MSMEs in particular and the informal economy in general; and (b)Generating feasible alternative solutions at different levels of business, governments, and society. The first section set the context and background to the study and the second section examine the existing literature and delineate broad contours of the study. The third section define the approach and objectives of the study followed by fourth and fifth sections devoted to the discussion and conclusions of the study with a research agenda for the future.