Risk management strategies for the long run use of resources: the impact of climate change on agriculture

Abstract

This publication is the result of a research contract completed for MAF Rural Policy Unit in 1991. The brief was to develop a policy framework to assist in the analysis of the issues raised by climate change and the implications for resource use in the long term. Issues to be considered included climate variability, uncertainty, risk management, sustainable resource use in agriculture, public perception and behavioural change as well as social, economic and environmental imparts. The approach taken to this research included analysis and the preparation of issues statements which were circulated to participants prior to a workshop to which, people directly concerned with climate change research and MAF consultants were invited. The results of this discussion were incorporated into the, final report to MAF presented in late 1991. Direct recommendations as to a process for further exploration of the issues and the complication of approaches for incorporating, factors raised by these issues in policy development and management were included. The need for policy makers to provide leadership in the management of resources for the long term will continue to be an important part of the function of the Rural Policy Unit. We hope therefore, that the results of this research may contribute to this function.