Adat community and climate change adaptation measures: case of Kasepuhan Karang

Abstract

Adat community (AC) needs for being adaptive to survive against the negative impacts of climate change and unexpected extreme conditions. They are very dependent on forest resources and practices of local wisdom to survive from various climate conditions. This paper aims to analyze the adaptation strategy of Kasepuhan Karang AC, Lebak District, Banten Province, towards climate change. Data are analyzed using descriptive analysis. The results show that the AC has no knowledge of climate change. However, the local wisdom reflected in their customary rules has until recently been able to make the AC to maintain their customary forest cover and manage its sustainably. They have never experienced a shortage of food and water, and are free from the huge flood disasters that hit several areas around it. This customary rule has proven that they are able to remain survived. But the increase of population and the development process has formed its own challenges. Their adaptation efforts are intended to improve the biophysical environment, expand business opportunities, and seeking breakthroughs in the use of their inherited land. Local wisdom is able to make AC survived, to anticipate population development, to adapt to climatic conditions and extreme conditions, and to make AC not being exposed towards climate change.