Vulnerability of Small Farmers in the Amazon to Climate Change
Author Information
Author(s): Brondizio Eduardo S, Moran Emilio F
Primary Institution: Indiana University
Hypothesis
How do cultural and informational factors influence the adaptive strategies of small farmers in the Amazon in response to climate change?
Conclusion
Small farmers in the Amazon are significantly affected by climate change, with many failing to adapt their land-use behaviors despite experiencing severe droughts.
Supporting Evidence
- Over 50% of farmers did not remember the significant ENSO drought of 1997/1998.
- Approximately 40% of farmers have not changed their land-use behaviors despite severe climate events.
- Farmers reported that memories of extended drought decrease significantly after 3 years.
- High rates of migration and family turnover undermine collective memory and adaptation.
- Farmers rely heavily on personal experiences rather than formal climate information.
Takeaway
Farmers in the Amazon often forget about past droughts after a few years, which makes it hard for them to change how they farm when climate changes happen.
Methodology
The study used survey, ethnographic, and archival data from small farmers in the state of Pará, Brazil.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the reliance on self-reported data from farmers regarding their experiences and memories of climate events.
Limitations
The study is limited by the high rate of migration and turnover among rural populations, which affects collective memory and adaptation.
Participant Demographics
Participants included small farmers from diverse backgrounds in the Amazon, particularly in the Pará region.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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