Climate Change Adaptation in Peru

Integrated and adaptive management of environmental resources and climate risks in Andean watersheds
The joint program aims at mainstreaming adaptation to climate change in the work of district and regional governments, producers´ associations and local population of the watersheds in general. To this end, the project implements a set of actions to improve the capacities of regional and local authorities and rural families, supported by information generation activities, demonstration projects and specific support for and sustainable and adaptive agricultural production and natural resources management.

Use of ichu native grass as a climate change adaptation strategy
Climate change in the highlands is manifested mainly through extreme events such as prolonged drought periods, short periods of heavy rain, and extreme cold during winter. To cope with these phenomena, some Andean populations make use of ichu grass. This native grass is part of the natural land cover, whose tender shoots are eaten by animals. Because of its  cylindrical hard and smooth stem, which is also waterproof, it is used to build the roofs of houses. During the day it is heated by the sun and increases room temperature, while in the afternoons and evenings, it maintains a comfortable temperature inside the protected spaces. It also plays important roles for the territory, mitigating the kinetic of rain on the soil, as well as contributing to soil fertility and carbon sequestration. 

Water reservoirs as a climate change adaptation strategy
Increasingly unpredictable weather conditions are adding stress on water availability for rural populations living in the Peruvian Andes. The building of small reservoirs close to scarce water sources allows rural communities to have a steady and reliable source of clean water throughout the year. Water provision is used not only for hygienic services, but more importantly for agricultural production critical to sustain the community's livelihoods throughout the year. In addition, water reservoirs may be used to grow trout and carp, thereby providing important nutrients to the diets of the community and diversifying risks and income opportunities. 

Reforestation as a climate change strategy
Changes in precipitation patterns caused by climate change in the Peruvian Andes jeopardize downstream water provision and cause landslides and erosion. The project aimed at recovering the vegetative cover of the upper parts of mountain ecosystems through the promotion of agroforestry and reforestation practices, which constitute comprehensive climate change adaptation strategies to restore soil humidity, improve water infiltration in the soil and reduce erosion and the likelihoods of runoffs.

Complementing the diet of Andean communities with small ruminants in the context of climate change
The guinea pig (known as cuy) is an ancient source of food for Andean cultures. It is rich in proteins as well as other valuable nutrients critical to healthy and balanced diets. Thus, the guinea pig is considered a strategic practice to adapt to the impacts of climate change by diversifying risks and contributing to the diet and to the family economy, while contributing to soil fertility. The joint program promoted this activity by building capacities of local communities in breeding, reproduction and sale of the guinea pig.