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Perception of climate change in four communities oriented to cattleranching in the central zone of the Ecuadorian Andes

Abstract:

This document analyzed the perception of small-scale farmers in four communities in the central Andean regionof Ecuador, regarding knowledge about Climate Change (CC), and willingness to accept training and actions toaddress CC. A survey of perceptions was carried out in 188 households of small-scale producers in thecommunities of Pilahuín, Tamboloma (Tungurahua) and San Rafael and Chuquipogyo (Chimborazo). The studyanalyzed the main socio-demographic characteristics and the livestock production system, mainly theperception that small-scale farmers have of the CC. The results show that most producers only have basiceducation and more than 60% do not understand or have any idea about climate change. However, most of them (70%) perceive that the climate has changed in their areas in recent years. Although about 90% have notadopted CC adaptation practices, most of them (80%) are willing to adopt these practices if they receive somekind of support from national or international organizations with expertise in the subject. Finally, the documentprovides conclusions and recommendations for decision makers towards the development of local skills topromote sustainable and climate change-resilient livestock production.