A Move towards Developing Usable Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Services for the Agricultural Sector

Abstract

Dryland farming is at the center of increasing pressure to produce more food for the growing population in an environment that is highly variable and with high expectations for the standard of their production systems. While there is mounting pressure for increased productivity, the responsibility to protect the environment and diminish the agricultural sector’s carbon footprint is receiving growing emphasis. Achieving these two goals calls for a consolidated effort to ensure that the scientific community and service providers partner with farmers to create a sustainable food production system that does not harm the environment. In this paper, we studied the nature of the services present in the market and identified ways that could be used to improve the climate services available to the agricultural sector. Important factors that could increase the usability of climate services include coproduction, context-specific information, innovation, demand-driven services, timeliness of services, highly applicable information, provision of services in the correct format, services that increase user experience, specificity of services to a locale, and services that are easily accessible.

Exploring climate change adaptation strategies of crop and livestock farmers in urban Ghana

“…However, agricultural extension officers play a crucial role in disseminating climate change adaptation information to farmers. For instance, it is argued that extension officers are recognized as key sources of knowledge and guidance for farmers seeking to adapt to changing climatic conditions [53]. The in accessibility of agriculture extension services for crop production by urban farmers means farmers workshops, training sessions, and one-on-one interactions on adapting their production to climatic stressors.…”

“…Extension officers are often the primary link between research institutions, governmental agencies, and farmers, bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and practical implementation in the field [55]. Their close relationship with local farming communities enables them to tailor adaptation strategies to specific needs and challenges, thereby enhancing their effectiveness [53].…”