Ecosystem-Based Adaptation for Climate-Resilient Agriculture in Guatemala’s Highlands

To understand how different land uses affect ecosystem functions, the project applied InVEST modelling tools to map and quantify carbon storage, sediment retention, and habitat quality in three micro-watersheds. This allowed the project team and local stakeholders to see the “what” (the ecological state of the landscape), “why” (which land uses provided more benefits), and “how” (where interventions were needed). For instance, forest and shrubland areas were found to store significantly more carbon and reduce erosion compared to basic grain croplands. This modelling helped prioritize areas for restoration and agroforestry. The visual outputs and metrics supported evidence-based discussions with communities and decision-makers, integrating ecological science into watershed-level planning.

To promote sustainability and incentivize adoption of restoration practices, the project aligned its interventions with Guatemala’s national forestry incentive schemes—PINPEP (targeting smallholders) and PROBOSQUE (supporting forest management and agroforestry). This approach answered “what” (financial support available for conservation), “why” (incentives reduce the cost barrier for farmers), and “how” (linking project actions with formal application support). Farmers engaged in agroforestry, reforestation, or conservation activities were guided through the process of registering for these programs, ensuring long-term continuity and co-financing. This institutional alignment also ensured that restoration efforts complied with national environmental priorities.

Recognizing that local communities hold deep environmental knowledge, the project conducted household surveys and community dialogues to map perceptions and practices around soil, water, and land use. This building block answered “what” (the lived experiences and practices of smallholders), “why” (planning must reflect cultural context), and “how” (engaging farmers in co-design). Farmers shared observations about decreasing water availability, shifting rainfall, and soil degradation. These insights complemented scientific models. In response, the project promoted culturally rooted practices like terracing, organic fertilization, and home gardening. Gender-sensitive approaches empowered women as leaders in ecological restoration and household resilience.