Planting and harvesting rainwater: An ecosystem-based adaptation water security measure (Ayacucho)

Abstract

Climate change is already among us, and we must combat it through adaptation measures. Extreme weather and lack of precipitation leave the Peruvian highlands extremely vulnerable in terms of water, agricultural and food security. In this context, the Planting and Harvesting of Rainwater project (SCALL) in the Jeullamayo micro-basin (Ayacucho) is an ancestral practice that uses biodiversity and ecosystem services to address climate change. This article recommends the conducting of a social evaluation for the improvement of the SCALL project through an Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA) approach. The evaluation shows that the SCALL provides private and social benefits and positive local and regional externalities, while also indicating a social net present value of 1,099,140 soles and an internal rate of social return of 15.2%. Therefore, the correct investment decision would be to implement the SCALL project.