Integrating policy measures into the assessment of household livelihood resilience to climate change in the Pumqu River Basin, Tibetan Plateau

Abstract

Abstract In the context of climate change, improving household livelihood resilience (HLR) especially in developing areas, has become an important agenda. However, previous studies of assessing HLR have ignored the behaviors of government authorities. Therefore, this study established an HLR evaluation index system based on household endowment and government behaviour from the dimensions of buffer capacity, self-organizing capacity, learning capacity and policy measures. Based on 701 questionnaires from the Pumqu River Basin (PRB), the level of local HLR was assessed and the key indicators that hinder the HLR were identified. The preliminary results indicate that the average HLR value in the PRB was 0.242, with Nyalam county > Dinggye county > Tingri county. In each dimension, the value of policy measures far outweighed the others, indicating policy measures should be integrated into assessing HLR. However, the implementation of policy measures, such as the promotion of new crops and skills training, are still insufficient. Household endowment aspects that hinder the development of HLR are mainly savings, leadership, education level of householders and relationship resources. The research results can provide a reliable basis for local governments to improve policies. In addition, we introduce the implementation experience of certain policies in the research area, providing a reference for other developing countries.