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Given the complexity of the CSA concept, the need to evaluate multiple trade-offs, and for solutions to be context specific, decision-support frameworks are needed to facilitate the identification of portfolios of best-bet CSA options. The CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS) and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) have taken on the challenge of developing a framework for prioritizing investment in CSA that is evidence-based, yet realistic in that it can move forward in the face of data and resource constraints. The process grounds prioritization in inclusive participatory processes integrating actors to ensure alignment with stakeholder criteria for prioritization and contextual realities. Flexibility is a key characteristic of the process to ensure users across sectors and levels can modify the process for their planning needs.

Prioritizing CSA practices and programs The prioritization framework uses a four phase approach to guide stakeholders through the process of filtering a long list of applicable CSA practices into portfolios of priority practices. The phases are additive, with each refining the previous outputs. The process generally takes between 4-8 months, and can be simplified and still provide valuable inputs into investment decision-making. The CSA prioritization framework aims to provide a coherent process for increasing technical understanding of CSA options and directing climate change and agriculture investment to assist national and region planning. With transparency and participation at the heart of the process, local knowledge and scientific evidence unite to establish realistic pathways for increasing CSA adoption. 

Photo credit: P. Casier