Farmers’ Livelihood and Adaptive Capacity in the Face of Climate Vulnerability

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to analyze the economic, social and environmental impacts of climate change on farmers’ livelihoods and adaptive capacity while highlighting specific adaptation strategies in the local climate context. Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected using a survey questionnaire and analyzed using partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Respondents were selected from seven farmer organizations (Pertubuhan Peladang Kawasan) located in Kedah, Malaysia. Findings – The study revealed that farmers perceive the economic, social and environmental impacts of climate change. These adverse effects of climate change have an impact on their livelihoods as well as their adaptive capacity. The findings also demonstrated that farmers’ livelihoods mediate the relationship between economic and environmental impacts of climate change as well as the adaptive capacity of farmers. Originality/value – Climate change severely affects the agricultural sector as well as farmers’ livelihoods. To minimize its effect, scientists and policymakers emphasize the improvement of farmers’ adaptive capacity as well as appropriate adaptation methods. However, there is little research on how climate change affects the livelihoods of farmers in the context of Malaysia. Therefore, the results of the study will provide a new perspective for policymakers to formulate a better adaptation policy framework as well as select appropriate adaptation strategies for sustainable agricultural development.