Potential of Traditional Adaptation Measures in Mitigating the Impact of Climate Change

Abstract

With the rapid changes in climate, minimizing their impact has become vital in all countries, especially in the countries most vulnerable to climate change effects. Yemen is one of the countries facing several challenges that exacerbate the impact of climate change on multiple sectors, including water resources and agriculture. This paper documents and addresses the role of traditional techniques practiced by smallholder farmers in rural villages of the Yemeni highlands for adapting to climate change. The measures are innovative and independent of state support and can be practiced in the future to mitigate the effects of climate change on agriculture and water resources. The findings of future projections on the region reveal an increase in precipitation and temperature, leading to more frequent floods and higher evaporation rates. Therefore, maintenance of agricultural terraces, construction of rainwater harvesting structures, promotion of crop diversity and rotations, integration of agroforestry practices, improving irrigation efficiency, and soil conservation will be essential in the future. Additionally, education and awareness programs on climate change adaptation issues at the community level are also needed. These measures also have a significant role in improving food security and alleviating poverty in rural areas of Yemen.