Climate Smart Agriculture Pre-test

Questions and Answers

What distinguishes climate from weather?

Climate stays mostly the same for a long time. (correct)

Climate is only about rain.

Weather is always hot or cold.

Weather changes only once a year.

Climate change is primarily caused by natural factors.

False

What are the four dimensions of food security?

Availability, Economic access, Physical access, and Utilization.

____ is the presence of enough quality food supplied locally or through imports.

Availability Signup and view all the answers

Match the components of food security with their definitions:

Availability = Presence of enough quality food supplied Economic access = Ability to obtain quality food through income Utilization = How food meets dietary needs Stability = Continued access to food during crisis Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main impacts of climate change on food crops?

Higher food prices Signup and view all the answers

Climate-smart agriculture practices do not contribute to reducing pollution.

False Signup and view all the answers

Name one local climate-smart practice.

Drip Irrigation Signup and view all the answers

Climate change makes it harder to grow food and get it to people who need it, leading to increased _______.

food shortages Signup and view all the answers

Match the following climate-smart agriculture solutions with their descriptions:

Zero Tillage = A method that reduces soil disturbance Drip Irrigation = A watering method that minimizes evaporation Crop Rotation = Planting different crops in a sequential manner Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Understanding Climate Change

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.

Causes of Climate Change

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

Impacts on Agriculture and Food Security

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 Effects on Food Security

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.

Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA)

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.

Gender Issues in CSA

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

Local Climate-Smart Practices

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.

Barriers to Climate-Smart Agriculture

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.

Opportunities in Climate-Smart Agriculture

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.