Climate Smart Agriculture Pre-test

Study Notes

Definition of Weather and Climate: Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions; climate is the long-term average of these conditions over many years.
Climate Variability: Climate can change over hours, days, months, and longer periods, unlike weather that can change rapidly.

Greenhouse Gases: Human activities release greenhouse gases, which are significant contributors to climate change.

Food Security Definition: Exists when all individuals have access to adequate, safe, and nutritious food during all times.
Four Dimensions of Food Security:
- Availability: Sufficient quality food must be locally supplied or imported.
- Access: Economic ability to obtain food is crucial, influenced by income and food prices.
- Utilization: Capacity to use food safely, considering hygiene and nutritional knowledge.
- Stability: Continued access to food during crises or economic downturns.

Climate change complicates food production and distribution, leading to reduced crop growth, spoilage, increased prices, and food shortages.
Vulnerable populations, particularly in import-dependent regions, are disproportionately impacted.

Definition: CSA involves sustainable agricultural practices that enhance productivity, increase resilience to climate change, and reduce environmental impact.
Benefits: Builds resilience against adverse climate conditions, secures food supply, and minimizes pollution.

Women face unique challenges in adapting to climate impacts due to existing gender inequalities. Equal participation is essential for effective farming and resilience.

Zero Tillage: Minimizes soil disturbance, enhancing soil health.
Drip Irrigation: Efficient water use, conserving water resources.
Livestock Manure Management: Sustainable waste treatment improves soil fertility.
Crop Rotation: Diversifies crops, improving soil and pest management.
Nitrogen-Efficient Crop Varieties: Reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers.
Agroforestry: Integrates trees and shrubs into farming landscapes for environmental benefits.

Economic Barriers: High initial investments and ongoing maintenance costs can deter farmers from adopting CSA practices.
Risk and Vulnerability: Adverse weather conditions and fear of risk hinder adaptation efforts.
Market Access: Limited access to markets can restrict sale opportunities for farmers.
Cultural and Policy Barriers: Traditional roles and weak policy frameworks can impede CSA implementation.

Emphasizing improved harvests, water management, and advanced agricultural techniques can yield short-term gains.
Strengthening funding sources and improving organizational support can enhance long-term sustainability.
Resilience building and improved knowledge dissemination can empower farmers to adopt CSA practices effectively.