The SDC supports a climate change adaptation programme in the highlands of Peru with the objective of preserving the livelihood of the poor communities in the regions of Cusco and Apurimac and reducing their vulnerability to climate change.

Background
Peru is seen as one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change. It is regularly exposed to devastating natural disasters, in particular floods, landslides, droughts and cold fronts. The coastal and highland regions are most affected by climate-related natural disasters.

The coastal region is regularly hit by the El Niño phenomenon, which brings heavy rain and floods as well as severe droughts. In the mountains climate change makes its presence felt in a drastic reduction in ice, snow and permafrost, which leads to a dramatic loss of water and heavy cold fronts.

Approach
Forecasts regarding climate trends and their possible effects are difficult and involve much uncertainty. The main objective of the PACC is therefore to improve the reliability of long-term forecasts by gathering scientific data and developing climate models. The programme also takes care that its vulnerability analyses combine scientific data with the observations of the local population. In this way it helps to strengthen the dialogue and mutual understanding between scientists, practitioners and politicians.

The second objective of the PACC is to strengthen the capability of the population and the authorities at the local and regional levels to develop effective adaptive measures in areas such as water management, food security, and the reduction of the risk of natural disasters. These experiences should be integrated in the national and international political dialogue and should also be used to help other vulnerable mountain regions.

Results achieved

• The PACC delivers in-depth analyses regarding vulnerability to climate change.
• New information systems simplify the gathering, analysis and communication of climate data.
• The population and the authorities define and implement specific adaptive measures in key areas such as water management, food security, and the reduction of the risk of natural disasters.
• The public is made aware of the issue of climate change and the political dialogue is strengthened at the local, regional, national and international levels.