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This synthesis publication has used the following
information sources: peer-reviewed journal articles;
grey literature sources (e.g. those available fromNGOs
and international organizations); government reports
including the National Communications submitted
by countries to the UNFCCC); and extensive expert
input through stakeholder consultations.
Socioeconomic background
The risk of climate change to society varies both with
the magnitude of the expected climate hazards and
with the society’s exposure and vulnerability to these
hazards. Vulnerability arises both from the sensitivity
and susceptibility to harm, and from the limited
capacity to cope and adapt. Many social factors such
as poverty, gender discrimination and education levels
are relevant to determine degrees of vulnerability.
People with limited funds, access to government
institutions or social safety nets have fewer adaptation
options and are more likely to suffer from the impact
of climate change. The high Andes, particularly in
Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia, have some of the most
widespread poverty in South America. Furthermore,
poverty-related problems in the mountains are
often exacerbated by remoteness from markets and
services. The effects of climate change could therefore
exacerbate existing social inequality and suffering,
including gender, ethnic and economic inequalities, all
of which are significant in the Tropical Andes region.
Despite significant economic growth and other
improvements achieved in the region during the late
1990s and the first decade of 2000, these countries
face other common issues, including poverty,
poor literacy and health care. Weak governing
institutions and high levels of corruption also limit
sustainable development and adaptive capacity in
the region. Furthermore, illegal activities, such as
the drug-industry, environmental crime and illegal
Tropic of Capricorn
Sucre
Lima
Quito
Bogota
Caracas
Castries
La Paz
El Alto
The Tropical Andes region
Guayaquil
Cali
Medellin
Barranquilla
Maracaibo
Valencia
SURINAME
FRANCE
GUIANA
GUYANA
BRAZIL
PERU
BOLIVIA
ECUADOR
COLOMBIA
VENEZUELA
N. Huascarán
Nevado
Auzangate
Nevado Coropuna
N. Sajama
N. Illimani
Aucanquilcha
Volcán Llullaillaco
Chimborazo
Volcán Galeras
N. del Ruiz
Ritacuba Blanco
Cerro
Marahuaca
Mt. Roraima
Cero Raya
500
1 000
2 000
3 000
4 000
5 000
Highest peak
Country capital
Protected area
Large city
(more than 1 million inhabitants)
Elevation (m.a.s.l.)