Agri-environmental sustainability of the local knowledge systems and adaptation practices to climate change of the Abaknons of Barangay [village] Oson, Capul Island, Philippines
2024
Vallez, A.G.C.
Small islands are the least likely to contribute to climate change but are the most likely to be affected by its adverse impacts. Capul Island is one of the small islands in the Philippines which is found to be prone to storm surge sand coastal erosion, as brought about by climate and weather disturbances. Its agricultural landscape is dominated by coconut while fishing is the most dominant form of livelihood. Culture plays an important role in the Abaknons' livelohood and adaptation practices to climate change. Their intimate knowledge of the island's biophysical environment and farming systems has helped them to conserve the natural resources of the island. The study assessed the local knowledge, beliefs, and climate change adaptation practices of the Abaknons through participant observation and development of a composite (sustainability) index. The results showed that the Abaknons' local knowledge systems, together with other important social, economic, and environmental indicators, are acceptable with an index value of 0.78 at good sustainability (GS) level. The study was also able to identify critical indicators that may pose threat to the environment such as ageing farmers/fisherfolks, high coastal population, low interest and entry of young people into agriculture, fair conditions of live coral cover, and decreasing diversity of fish species.
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