Goal
This project complements a larger collaborative effort between the Government of Ceará and the International Research Institute for Climate Prediction (IRI). CRED's goal is to better understand the behavior of individuals and groups associated with the Water Allocation Seminars in the Ceará state of Brazil. A second aspect is the study of the use of climate information and the roles of participatory structures involving the parties who play a part in drought contingency planning. It will help to organize discussions and role playing among the different groups that are impacted by large scale water transfers and planning under uncertain future scenarios.

In addition to effects of socioeconomic and production variables, we study the influence of individual psychological characteristics and many participatory group structures on the use of climate-based information. The study of these behavioral aspects in collaboration with relevant local policy makers lets us explore how to improve decision aids, including educational products and scenario generators (loosely termed Decision Support Tools).

Background
The state of Ceará is a semi-arid region located in North East Brazil. It is one of the least developed regions and is afflicted with severe drought and poor soils. Participatory water allocation began in 1994 when the state was on the verge of water crisis due to low rates of precipitation since the drought of 1992. Since then regular meetings were established so that the community along with business leaders and members of civil society organizations and of municipal, state, and federal agencies could come together to discuss issues of water distribution for the upcoming seasons.

Research Questions
What goals and incentives do the different stakeholders have, both as individuals and within groups?

How do decisions vary by group composition?

How does the presentation of climate information affect perception of climate risk?

Which presentation formats help achieve the goals of information communicator and decision maker?

What enhances adoption of shared goals?

Related Projects
Following is a sub-project conducted as part of the Brazil project.

» Strategic Use of Uncertainty

Last Updated: June 1, 2006