Sustainability Assessment of the Local Knowledge Systems and Climate Change Adaptation of the Abaknon in Capul Island, Northern Samar, Philippines

Small islands are the least likely to contribute to climate change but are the most likely to be affected by its adverse impacts. Capul is one of the small islands in the Philippines which is found to be prone to storm surges and coastal erosion, as brought about by climate and weather disturbances. Its agricultural landscape is dominated by coconut while small-scale fishing is the most dominant form of livelihood. Local knowledge systems play an important role in the Abaknon’s livelihood and adaptation practices to climate change. Their intimate knowledge of the island’s biophysical environment and farming systems has helped them to conserve the natural resources of the island. The study assessed the local knowledge, beliefs, and climate change adaptation practices of the Abaknon through development of a composite sustainability index which was informed by direct field observation and field interviews. The results showed that the Abaknon’s local knowledge systems, together with other important social, economic, and environmental indicators are acceptable with an index value of 0.78, a good sustainability level. The study was also able to identify critical indicators that may pose threat to the environment such as ageing farmers/fisherfolks, high coastal population, low interest and entry of young people into agriculture, fair condition of live coral cover, and decreasing diversity of fish species.