With extreme climate change, our Fairtrade farmers in the Philippines have always been prone to disasters. Mr. Noel Campos, a 28-year-old Fairtrade farmer, has been facing numerous issues in the sugarcane field due to the impact of climate change, including crop damage and the adverse effects of El Niño. Hence, it becomes imperative to involve them in strategic planning and execution to prevent, mitigate, and respond to natural and man-made disasters. This approach encompasses preparedness, emergency response, and recovery efforts to safeguard communities and reduce vulnerabilities.
A group of 38 fairtrade farmers, constituting of 14 men and 24 women gathered with this shared purpose. Their destination: a transformative workshop designed to arm them with knowledge and skills to combat the threat of climate change and natural disasters. This initiative, spearheaded by Fairtrade NAPP, sought to build capacity on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Climate Change Adaptation (CCA). The aim was to increase farmers’ and community awareness of climate change’s effects and enhance their adaptive capacities to mitigate and reduce risks. Known to fortify the land against the ravages of extreme weather, the central effort involved the critical topics of agroforestry and the planting of native trees. This initiative brought out the unique stories of resilience and hope among our fairtrade farmers. This workshop is one of the three (3) projects funded under Fairtrade Germany with overall aim to raise community awareness and preparedness equipping them with knowledge to adapt and become more resilient.
The workshop was structured around Module I: Climate and Climate Change, meticulously designed and delivered by three seasoned facilitators. The module was segmented into three pivotal sub-topics:
- Climate and Weather: Concepts and Differences
- Causes of Climate Change
- Impact of Climate Change
Each topic was more than a lesson. The facilitators, with their expertise and passion, explained the complexities of climate and weather to clarify the often-misunderstood differences. They explored into the anthropogenic and natural causes of climate change to paint a vivid picture of how human activities intertwine with natural processes to alter our world. The fairtrade farmers shared their actual experiences with disasters, especially the ongoing prolonged drought, discussing the effects and impacts on their farms, livelihoods, and health. The discussions on the impact of climate change particularly resonated with the participants as they could draw direct parallels to their lived experiences.
The immediate impact has been profound. Participants gained a comprehensive understanding of Fairtrade NAPP, its principles, and services. They grasped the distinctions between weather and climate, the causes and effects of climate change, and its impacts. They discussed agroforestry techniques, the benefits of planting native trees, and other adaptive practices that could shield their farms from future adversities. This heightened awareness and understanding enabled them to connect these concepts to their own experiences, recognizing their efforts to overcome disasters and maintain resilience. As farmers shared their strategies for coping with disasters, they found common ground in their resilience. They acquired practical steps to reduce disaster risks and felt equipped to develop Disaster Risk Reduction Management Plans. Farmers such as Mr. Noel Campos have been thankful for imparting their knowledge about climate change. They learned a lot better from Fairtrade NAPP team. We have lots of experience about climate change.
However, this journey has not been without challenges. The ongoing drought is a stark reminder of the urgency of their mission. Hence, it made the learning experience more important, bringing the farmers’ interest and compelling them to learn more and act swiftly.
Through this journey, Fairtrade NAPP reaffirmed its commitment to supporting communities in their fight against climate change. The road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but with continued support, advanced training, and the unwavering spirit of these farmers, the community stands ready to face the future—resilient, informed, and united.
I am Raquel Dalumpines, 51 years old, my work in the sugarcane field is weeding. I am thankful for this workshop as learned about climate change. I have also experience changes in our climate and observe the impact of climate change including the long drought and wonder if when is the rain will come. If you will orient us again, it will add more knowledge.”
