Ánalisis de la percepción de las comunidades rurales sobre el impacto de la ganadería en el contexto del cambio climático: Un enfoque hacia la conservación de los recursos naturales

Abstract

Abstract: Climate change poses a global threat with significant implications for agriculture and food security, particularly impacting regions where livestock farming plays a crucial role in the economy and livelihoods. This study investigates the perceived impact of climate change on livestock farming in the Zamora Chinchipe province of Ecuador, specifically within the El Pangui canton. 121 semi-structured surveys were administered to inhabitants of the area, covering topics such as demographics, perceptions of livestock farming and climate change impacts, knowledge of its causes and effects, and potential mitigation solutions, preliminary results indicate that the majority of respondents (primarily men, of mestizo ethnicity, aged 36- 55, with secondary education, and engaged in agriculture and livestock farming) recognize climate change as a reality and primarily associate it with agricultural and livestock activities. They highlight water and forage scarcity as the most pressing concerns. Furthermore, reforestation and the adoption of sustainable livestock practices, coupled with training and subsidies, emerge as the most frequently suggested solutions, this study aims to contribute to the understanding of local perceptions of climate change within the context of livestock farming and to identify strategies for promoting adaptation, sustainability, and food security in the region. It is anticipated that the findings of this research will encourage a collaborative approach between authorities and communities to address the challenges posed by climate change.