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Linking Climate Change to Local Livelihoods

by Stephen Browne — last modified 03/04/2008 15:31

Climate change challenges us all to look ahead, plan better, and be prepared. FEG Consulting has a comparative advantage in this regard with its pioneering use of livelihood impact modeling for early warning purposes. Its development of a unique set of predictive tools (Livelihood Impact Analysis Spreadsheets, or LIAS) that combine current state-of-the art hazard monitoring applications (e.g. USGS's Water Requirement Satisfaction Index) with comprehensive livelihoods data sets has transformed the early warning systems of Malawi and Ethiopia, tying them more closely to the realities and capacities of rural households.

Along with this experience in end-to-end analysis, a new focus on integrating water promises to enhance FEG Consulting's modeling skill. Building changes in water availability and access into FEG's livelihood systems analysis will increase predictive capacities and help identify a wider range of options for supporting people's own efforts to build resilience.
Building Resilience

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Climate change impacts will range from affecting agriculture- further endangering food security-, sea-level rise and the accelerated erosion of coastal zones, increasing intensity of natural disasters, species extinction and the spread of vector-borne diseases.   - UNEP

As the frequency and magnitude of climate-related hazards increases, our predictive and response capacities must improve in equal measure. Part of this prepartion involves understanding just whose livelihoods will be affected by different hazards (and how), and learning what we can do now to build resiliencies. If we are to successfully meet the challenges of this changing world, we need to shore up weaknesses in livelihood systems now. We must not look back one day wishing we had spent more time looking ahead.
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