Local knowledge on climate variation: case of Negombo and Batticaloa, Sri Lanka.

Abstract

Knowledge on climatic variations can expand a local community's capacity to adapt to climate change. In recognition of this process, there are number of knowledge transferring and awareness building. programmes that have been undertaken in developing countries around the world. While many such programmes are focused on 'introducing knowledge into local systems' this research emphasizes the 'existences of knowledge within local systems' .on climate change. This study aims to explore the level of awareness on local rainfall and temperature variations among different societal groups in Negombo and Batticaloa, Sri Lanka. The research findings stress the existence of strong observations and memories on climatic variations among local societal groups that exist at different degrees. The findings of this research suggest strengthening knowledge sharing mechanisms within local systems will enable communities to learn from one and another in order to enhance their adaptive capacity so as to be more resilient to the emerging threats of climate change.