Ecosystem services and livelihoods in a changing climate: Understanding local adaptations in the Upper Koshi, Nepal

Abstract

Mountain ecosystems are increasingly being affected by global environmental change, challenging the ubiquitous agroecosystem-based livelihoods of the people. This article uses participatory research methods to document and analyse (1) local and regional impacts of climate change on ecosystem services (ES) and livelihoods, and (2) the main current adaptation strategies of local peoples in the mountains of central Nepal. Major observed impacts include reduced precipitation and an irregular rainfall pattern, affecting paddy cultivation and winter crop production. Production is also affected by increased pest and pathogen prevalence. Other impacts include increased livestock disease and reduced forest regeneration. Our results confirm earlier findings of a decrease in the district's forest cover in past; however, substantial efforts in forest conservation and management at the local level have gradually increased forest cover in recent years. Despite the increased potential for forest ecosystem services, the availability of forest goods, in particular fuel wood, fodder and litter, have decreased because of a strict regulation on forest goods extraction. Additionally, new invasive species are colonising these forests, preventing regeneration of preferred and local forest vegetation in some areas and, as a result, the densities of tree crops are changing. Most users cope with these changes by short term, reactive solutions. However, a number of local adaptation strategies, such as changing both agricultural practices and water harvesting and management, are increasing efficiency in resource use. To increase the adaptive capacity of poor households, we suggest it is essential to incorporate climate change adaptations within the local planning process.

Household Perceptions about the Impacts of Climate Change on Food Security in the Mountainous Region of Nepal

“…To systematically analyze the impacts of climate change on food security, it is important to integrate all four components of food security (i.e., food availability, access, utilization and stability). Several studies explain that increased incidences of erratic precipitation, landslides, floods and droughts have decreased agricultural production and deteriorated food security [2,20,21]. Therefore, this study explores whether these scientific findings are reflected in local people's perceptions of climate change and household food security.…”

Household food security in the face of climate change in the Hindu-Kush Himalayan region

“…A small proportion of households also changed their farming practices (Table 7). These changes included slight shifts in timing of crop cultivation, exploring improved varieties of seed and use of different agriculture practices requiring less water (Bhatta et al 2015). Around 8-9 % of households either gave up rearing certain livestock or changed their grazing practices (Table 7).…”

Mainstreaming Ecosystem Services Based Climate Change Adaptation (EbA) in Bangladesh: Status, Challenges and Opportunities

“…While the structural approach is still necessary, a gradual shift towards EbA approach would have surely offered certain long term benefits such as cost effectiveness, avoiding mal-adaptation, community participation and livelihood development [1,14].…”

“…in form of provisioning, regulating, supporting and cultural services [1][2][3][4]. The role of ESS to enhance the adaptation capacities to climate change impacts is increasingly evident and important in the scientific literature [5], international environmental policies [6] and often at national policy level [7].…”