Challenge description
In Montpeyroux, vine-growing is a key activity. As the village is currently applying for the creation of a village wine appellation, stakeholders are worried about the future of the activity. This concern is a territorial matter, as vine-growing and wine-making shape both local landscapes and local economy.
Climate change induces severe draughts and prolunged heat waves. The village has very few access to water resources, climate variability is increasing, and 2019 has been the fourth year in a row with a small volume of grapes harvested.
Moreover, vine-growers are willing to take into account the expectations of their neighbors and fellow citizens, in particular in the reduction of pesticides use, which requires a true questionning of their global cultivation habits.
Challenge vision
The heart of this Climathon is to preserve the local economy through local climate adaptation. Water resources are considered a short-term solution, as recurring droughts should happen in the near future.
In order to drive climate adaptation and reduction of pesticides use, the challenge is to bring together ideas and energies from all local stakeholders, vine and wine professionals, citizens, along with researchers and other institutions. The case of Montpeyrouux is representative of other small villages with similar problematics in the South of France, so it should inspire evolutions in other places.