Peasant perceptions about climate change in Huamuchapa, Guerrero

Abstract

This research analyzes the peasant perspective about climate change by peasant from the community of Huamuchapa, municipality of Tecoanapa, in Guerrero, Mexico, its origin and implications, and the perception of bioclimatic indicators at the local level. We used a mixed methodology, a descriptive statistical analysis was carried out, the information derived from direct observation, semi-structured interviews, tours of plots and a socio-demographic and peasant production survey applied to 30% of the families in the locality. It was found that these peasants had an incipient knowledge of climate change in conceptual terms, which does not prevent them from clearly perceiving that the climate has been changing and their explanations about it revolve around its naturalness, ignorance, their beliefs and activities anthropogenic. The effects of climate change are recognized in the changes in temperature and precipitation, which have a direct impact on the cultivation of maize, and the lack of availability of water for domestic use, in addition, farmers recognize and reflect that the elements that are they have modified are relevant for the survival of the community, the family and the next generations. In conclusion, peasants experience climate changes, identify and explain them according to their experiences and beliefs, are very willing to participate in adaptation actions, they are aware of the effects considered "damage" to the environment that surrounds them and contribution of their own acts to them. Faced with climatic adversities, they try and adopt decisive practices to dispose of maize.