Abstract

Climate change poses unprecedented and unforeseen challenges to global agriculture, threatening food security, livelihoods and ecosystems. Increasing trends of global temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, increased intensity & frequency of extreme weather events and the rising atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels are profoundly altering agro-ecosystems worldwide. The maladies of climate change in agriculture include reduced crop yields, increased pest and disease manifestation, water scarcity, soil degradation, livestock stress, biodiversity loss and extreme weather events. These climate change induced impacts are exacerbated by economic and social vulnerabilities, particularly among smallholder farmers in developing countries. Additionally, agriculture also contributes to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions, creating a feedback loop that intensifies the problem. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that integrates adaptation, mitigation, and sustainable development strategies. The potential remedies for climate change in agriculture encompass a range of strategies aimed at building resilience and reducing environmental impacts. Key solutions include the adoption of climate-resilient crop varieties, sustainable water management practices, conservation agriculture and integrated pest management. Agroforestry, improved livestock management and renewable energy use further enhance sustainability. At policy level, national governments must invest in research and development in agriculture, strengthen early warning climate systems and support smallholder farmers through financial and technical assistance. This review highlights the interconnectedness of climate change challenges and the need for coordinated action at both national and global levels. By implementing these remedies, the agricultural sector can enhance resilience, ensure food security and contribute to global climate goals.

Keywords:Climate change; Agriculture resilience; Food security; Climate-smart agriculture; Sustainable agriculture; Climate policy interventions; Conservation agriculture