Challenge

The poorest areas suffer most from climate change because they do not have adequate infrastructure or the human and technical capabilities to cope with ecological change at the local and regional level. Semi-arid environments are particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts. Their economies are often based on pasture and subsistence agriculture but they lack one of the most essential resources: water. Climate variability will continue to increase in the coming years.

Action

Thais and Daniele looked to develop methods to help communities adapt to climate change. In 2006 they developed and launched the Pintadas Solar pilot project in Pintadas, Northeast Brazil. The project sought to harness technology to enable adaptation and ensure food security without destroying the local ecosystems. It focused on using solar energy to pump water and provide efficient (low water usage) irrigation systems and encourage food production. The project set out to avoid the traditional mistakes of development projects such as technocratic, top-down interventions and a focus on building large-scale infrastructure.

Impact

The project has fostered an integrated development approach to community adaptation and mitigation to climate change by enabling appropriate use of water efficient and clean energy technologies. The project has improved agricultural practices, enhanced food security and generated income. In 2008, this initiative was granted a SEED (Strategic Entrepreneurial Economic Development) award which has enabled the project to scale up its scope and impact. The project has also received the UN Habitat Best Practice award.

www.pintadas-solar.org/