Adaptive capacity and climate resilience of mountain pastoralist communities under extreme weather stress

Abstract

Pastoralism plays a vital role in Pakistan's agricultural sector, yet the impact of climate change and climate-related extreme weather events on pastoralists' land use decisions and adaptation strategies remains underexplored. This study investigates livelihood impacts, adaptive capacity, and local adaptation responses of high-altitude pastoral communities to extreme weather in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. Six focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with pastoralist communities using participatory research methods to explore their perceptions and responses to climate stressors. Thematic analysis revealed that snow-related climate risks —extreme colds, avalanches, wildfires, floods, and storms—led to significant livestock and crop losses, limiting access to resources, and disruption of seasonal movement patterns. Key adaptation strategies included genetic selection of livestock, temporary sheltering, migration, stock feeding, livestock reduction, and temporary cessation of farming. Barriers to adaptation included high illiteracy rates, limited access to information and early warning systems, under-representation of youth in decision-making, ethnic conflict, and poor infrastructure. Financial support, improved infrastructure, access to information, and the inclusion of marginalized groups are critical for enhancing community resilience. Policy recommendations emphasize the need to resolve land tenure conflicts, promote youth participation in decision-making, and support inter-ethnic peace-building initiatives to reduce vulnerability.