Climate change and Agriculture

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Global warming is the rise of earth temperatures due to increase of green houses gases such as carbon dioxide in the ozone layers. The greenhouse gases are mainly as a result of human activities such as industralisation .The ozone layer-a shield that surrounds the earth- is destroyed, therefore ultra-violet rays can reach the earth surface .Climate change is a major concern among farmers. This is because of unpredictable weather changes and increase in temperatures. Climate change is a major threat to food security.

As you may know crops have different specific ecological requirements and so does different species of livestock.  Farmers for one are worried about the ever increasing temperatures and change in rainfall patterns. Dependence on rain water is now a fallacy. With increased temperatures, crops grow quickly but then the yields are reduced. In some circumstances higher carbon dioxide levels will increase yields. Quality of crops such as coffee is affected by early maturity. Areas that were once cool will become warmer allowing a new range of crops to be cultivated.

The numbers of crop and livestock infestation by weeds, pests and parasites increases with increase in temperature. Also just as humans are vulnerable to heat waves so are livestock. Pastures and feed supplies would also be affected as quality of feed will lower due to early maturity. New ways of combating parasites and pests will have to be looked into. This is to ensure good quality and adequate livestock feeds.

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If you are into aquaculture, fisheries are also caught in the heat of the moment (literally).The fish ranges and shellfish species may change. Some species are now becoming extinct. Diseases are prevalent in warm water as a warm temperature is conducive for them to thrive. That’s why some fish species numbers are dropping by the day (ceteris paribus). Reproduction and migration timings are also affected by temperatures and seasons conditions. 

Climate change is a major threat to food security. Mitigation and adaption measures such as irrigation and rainwater harvesting have to be put in place. World governments have tried to put policies on greenhouses such as carbon credits. Remember taking care of our environment is human responsibility, not only for us but also for future generations thus Sustainable Development Goals. 

Source:http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/impacts-adaptation/agriculture.html