Perceptions of Climate Change Risk to Forest Ecosystems: A Case Study of Patale Community Forestry User Group, Nepal

The purpose of this study was to investigate
perceptions of climate change risk to forest ecosystems and forestbased
communities as well as perceived effectiveness of adaptation
strategies for climate change as well as challenges for adaptation.
Data was gathered using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire.
Simple random selection technique was applied. For the majority of
issues, the responses were obtained on multi-point likert scales, and
the scores provided were, in turn, used to estimate the means and
other useful estimates. A composite knowledge index developed
using correct responses to a set of self-rated statements were used to
evaluate the issues. The mean of the knowledge index was 0.64. Also
all respondents recorded values of the knowledge index above 0.25.
Increase forest fire was perceived by respondents as the greatest risk
to forest eco-system. Decrease access to water supplies was perceived
as the greatest risk to livelihoods of forest based communities. The
most effective adaptation strategy relevant to climate change risks to
forest eco-systems and forest based communities livelihoods in
Kathmandu valley in Nepal as perceived by the respondents was
reforestation and afforestation. As well, lack of public awareness was
perceived as the major limitation for climate change adaptation.
However, perceived risks as well as effective adaptation strategies
showed an inconsistent association with knowledge indicators and
social-cultural variables. The results provide useful information to
any party who involve with climate change issues in Nepal, since
such attempts would be more effective once the people’s perceptions
on these aspects are taken into account.

• N. R. P Withana
• E. Auch

• Climate change
• forest ecosystems
• forest-based communities
• risk perceptions.

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