Devising spatio-temporal adaptation from land suitability inputs: Measures and options for sub-alpine agricultural systems

Abstract

The paper introduces a decision-making approach with the intention to guide agricultural adaptation to climate change during the 21st century. Using two orographically dissimilar sub-alpine systems located in the Australian Alps and Chilean Dry Andes, the rational selection of adaptation measures and local options is framed into a spatio-temporal adaptation model. Decision-making here is supported by the interpretation of adaptation pathway analogues following key adaptation typologies (like flexibility and deepness) and representative landscape functionalities found in specific rural spaces. The model is based on estimating multi-scale land suitability gaps and feasible biophysical and irrigation-potential combination of adjustments seen as necessary to propose specific adaptation strategies for a baseline, mid-century and end-century periods. Decision-making insights resulting from this exercise could improve the evaluation when corroborating and generalising regional-type adaptation pathways in the light of adaptation opportunities and limits.