Impact of Climate Change in Agriculture; Crop Adaptation and GHGs Mitigation

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Ujjwal Kumar Singh Kushwaha
Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal
Email:-kush_ujjwal@yahoo.com
Abstract
Agriculture ranks among the most hazardous industry. Climate change and agriculture are interrelated processes both of which takes place on a global scale. According to Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC); three main causes of increase in green house gases observed over the past 250 years have been fossil fuels, land use and agriculture. Agriculture can both mitigate and worsen global warming. This sector historically proves itself to be highly adoptive but this adaptation takes place within certain range of climatic conditions. Appropriate adaptation can greatly reduce the magnitude of impact of climate change. But before promoting adaptation options, however; it is necessary to consider the full range of socio-economic impacts; culture and livelihood must also be considered. Global warming increased CO2­ level in atmosphere, precipitation pattern have been changed, crop yield reduced, soil degrade fasts, temperature has been increased, source of water drying and draught occurred in many regions.  In such situation, adaptation techniques under farmer’s level such as growing draught resistant varieties, micro irrigation, change in cropping pattern calendar etc is necessary. Similarly, livestocks contribute 18% GHGs globally. Change in feeding behavior of animal is necessary. Certain probiotics reduce CH4 production drastically and beneficial impacts on health. Although understanding of the potential impact of climate change on agriculture has improved, a number of key knowledge gaps, particularly with respect to the process of agricultural adaptation need to be addressed in order  to fully assess vulnerability. Research is also needed to determine what barriers exist to adaptation in the agriculture sector and how these can be addressed.
 (Published in Abstract of First national Youth Conference on Environment, held in 3-4, June2010. Kathmandu, Nepal)

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