Author(s):
Monica Hadarits, BA, MSc Candidate* - University of Guelph
Abstract:
Climate change poses challenges for many economic and societal sectors, though its multiple effects and stresses are uncertain. One major export-oriented sector in Chile is the wine industry. This paper explores the sensitivity and adaptability of the Chilean grape and wine industry in the context of other stresses via a case study in the Maule Region, the largest wine producing region in Chile. The research was conducted using a vulnerability approach which is based on the empirical documentation of current exposures, sensitivities and adaptive capacity. Focus groups and in-depth semi-structured interviews were the primary data collection methods. Climate-related exposures identified in the study included spring frosts, wet falls and drought. These exposures were placed in the context of other conditions including market price and currency fluctuations, access to capital and labour conditions. The paper concludes that, to date, the Maule Region has experienced very consistent climatic conditions for grape growing and wine production, and consequently producers have not developed extensive suites of adaptation strategies to manage future potential changes.
