Climate Change in Chiloé (Chile): Trends, Coastal Zones and Socio-Ecological Conflicts

Abstract

The archipelagic geography of the province of Chiloé (Chile) makes it one of the most vulnerable places in the country to climate change. In this paper, the consequences of climate change in Chiloé are analyzed using two methodological approaches in an effort to improve our understanding of this threat. Firstly, the Low Elevation Coastal Zones (LECZ) have been identified using the 16 m isohypse as a reference. This threshold aligns with the maximum run-up of tsunamis recorded in Chile. Consequently, it has been determined that the LECZ contain a quarter of Chiloé’s urban infrastructure, as well as 665 specific elements of significant socio-economic value. Secondly, the potential impact of climate change on the most pressing socio-ecological conflicts, particularly those related to water stress and salmon farming, has been examined. Issues such as the occurrence of red tides, the proliferation of invasive species, or the reliance on water trucks for summer water supply are likely to become more frequent in the future. In conclusion, it is evident that climate change not only introduces new challenges to the region but also exacerbates existing coastal-marine problems. The development of a specific instrument to address this phenomenon in the province of Chiloé is therefore crucial to reduce the effects of climate change.