Good and bad effects of climate change on agricultural production

Natashia Qwabe, a research assistant at the Agricultural Research Council, writes about the shifting patterns of agricultural production due to climate change.

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Climate change is a global issue that is affecting the way people live and interact with the environment. Among its numerous effects, climate change has a significant impact on agricultural production systems, leading to patterns that vary, with positive as well as negative effects. In order to ensure food security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability, agricultural practices need to adapt as the Earth’s climate continues to change, resulting in changes to temperature and precipitation patterns.

Farmers are finding it challenging to maintain consistent and predictable crop yields as a result of the escalating effects of climate change on traditional agricultural landscapes. 

Global agricultural systems are being affected by factors such as rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns and a rise in the frequency of extreme weather events including heatwaves, floods and droughts. In order to maintain production and profitability, these shifts are requiring farmers to reconsider existing methods, adopt new technologies and investigate other strategies.

Modifications in agricultural production patterns may also present chances for creativity and adaptability. Utilising drought-tolerant crop varieties, precision irrigation and improved soil management techniques are just a few examples of the climate-smart agricultural practices that farmers can use to adapt.

By improving resource efficiency, lowering greenhouse gas emissions and conserving water, these modifications can support agricultural sustainability system.

SHIFTING PATTERNS IN THE MAIZE BELT