Determinants of reactive adaptations to climate change in semi-arid region of Pakistan

This study covers the methodological gap in determining adoption of adaptation strategies towards changing climate by farmers, in semi-arid region of Pakistan. By considering significance as well as scale of adoption, the study derived an adaptation index and studied determinants and barriers affecting successful adoption of different adaptation strategies, mainly by conducting Focal Group Discussion (FGD), experts’ interviews and household survey. Based on survey from 200 rice growers of Pakistan, the adaptations identified include elevated rates of irrigation, on-farm storage, alteration in fertilizer rates, weather forecasting and soil conservation techniques. Further, influence of different socioeconomic factors on adoption of adaptations is unraveled by using multiple linear regression approach. Results reveal the impact of farming experience, education of farmer, family size, access to credit, involvement in non-farm activities, belief on climate change and relevant adaptations is significant on adoption of adaptations. It suggests that implementation policies for adaptations should be revised, by considering vital role of these socioeconomic characteristics as well as local level actions of farmers. [Display omitted] •Pakistan's agriculture sector is threatened by climatic changes.•Rice growers of Pakistan are aware of changing patterns of climate, and its impact on agriculture.•To cope with adversities of climate change, rice growers are taking reactive adaptation measures.•Local responses should be considered for policy making in developing countries for ensuring climate change resilience.•For building resilience against climate change, developing countries like Pakistan should consider local level responses while making policies.