In the context of increased rainfall variability and recurrent drought in mountain regions of China, the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) has published a study titled 'Coping with Climate-induced Water Stress Through Time and Space in the Mountains of Southwest China,' on strategies to increase resilience to water shortages.
29 April 2013: In the context of increased rainfall variability and recurrent drought in mountain regions of China, the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) has published a study, titled ‘Coping with Climate-induced Water Stress Through Time and Space in the Mountains of Southwest China,’ on strategies to increase resilience to water shortages.
ICRAF scientists documented a range of coping strategies, including erosion control, village water management rules, changes in cropping patterns, and new irrigation methods. The study highlights that political trends in China are promoting decentralized and market-driven solutions.
The authors note that not all coping strategies will be sustainable in the long-term, and stress the need to link short-term strategies with long-term ecological and socioeconomic adaptations. They promote afforestation both for restoration of natural forest and for incorporating trees into farmlands.
ICRAF is a member of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research [Publication: Coping with Climate-induced Water Stress Through Time and Space in the Mountains of Southwest China] [ICRAF Press Release]