MEASURES OF ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE AMONG COFFEE ORGANIZATIONS IN THE CENTRAL ZONE OF VERACRUZ, MEXICO

Abstract

Background: Coffee cultivation is highly sensitive to changes in temperature and precipitation, as well as to the presence of extreme weather events, which impact coffee production. In the way producers adapt, impacts will be reduced. Objective: Know the perception of coffee producers about changes in the climate and identify the adaptive measures implement that contributes to face the adverse effects of climate change and reduce their current and future vulnerability. Methodology: A questionnaire was applied to sixty-four members of two coffee organizations in the central zone of the State of Veracruz, Mexico. Results: Coffee producers perceive changes in the climate, which affect production. Five physical and three socials measures of adaptation to climate change were recorded. Agroecological producers apply a greater number of adaptive measures than conventional producers, being less vulnerable. Implications: Results allow elaborating recommendations for adaptation to climate change and reducing future vulnerability. Conclusions: All the adaptive measures currently being used are autonomous and reactive, meaning, they will contribute to face climate change effects in the short term. However, anticipatory and planned long-term measures are recommended.