Impacts and Adaptations of Rice Farmers from Climate Change: Case Study: Ban Sai Community, Muangxone, Huaphan Province, Lao PDR

Abstract

Climate change is a major problem that is affecting the ecosystem. In particular, it directly affects the agricultural sector that depends mainly on weather and rain. Therefore, this research article aims to study 1) the impact of climate change on rice farmers in Muang Chon community, Houaphan Province, Lao PDR; Muang Chon Community, Houaphan Province, Lao PDR. This research was mixed methods between quantitative and qualitative research. The population have had 68 households, of which 27 samples were sampled. Primary data were collected by in-depth interviews and were analyzed by content analysis. Statistic by using percentages was used for quantitative analysis.

The results showed that the most affected by climate change are, the rain does not coincide with the season. (96.30 percent). These affect the growth of rice grains and also the state of being withered of the stalks before the harvest period. In addition, changes in weather conditions have been catalyst for the propagation of insect pests, which affected to the economic loss of; especially, cassava and rice farmers. There are 3 aspects of adaptation to climate change, namely economic, social and environmental aspects. Including change of production by focusing to varieties of products (96.59 percent). However, the adaptation from such effects is still limited because farmers still lack knowledge and also the lack of promotion and support from pertinent agencies. This is also requires supporting budget. Therefore, farmers suggest that relevant agencies should plan for water management and support knowledge in countering climate change more effectively.