Exploring proximate determinants of farmers' adaptation measures to climate change: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Climate change presents a critical global challenge, profoundly impacting agricultural development, livelihoods, and food security worldwide. This paper synthesizes researches to examine the escalating risks climate change, with projections indicating substantial crop yield reductions and heightened climate variability. Despite the implementation of diverse adaptation strategies by farmers, including altered cropping patterns and enhanced irrigation practices, significant gaps persist in effectively mitigating climate risks. Key determinants influencing farmers' adaptation decisions include access to financial resources, education, extension services, and socio-economic factors. The paper underscores the complex interplay of economic, social, and environmental dimensions in shaping adaptive capacity. Moving forward, there is a pressing need for enhanced research, policy support, and institutional frameworks to bolster agricultural resilience. This necessitates targeted interventions that provide farmers with timely climate information, promote sustainable farming practices, and ensure equitable access to resources. Collaborative efforts across local, national, and international levels are essential to scale up effective adaptation strategies and foster sustainable agricultural development in a changing climate, thereby safeguarding food security and livelihoods globally.