Climate change (agri)

Question 1

Define climate change

Answer 1

• Long-term shift in global or regional climate patterns

- Refers to the general rise in global temperatures since the mid 20th century to present

Question 2

How agri contributes to climate change

Answer 2

• Responsible for 14% of global GHG emissions
• Agri deforestation contributes to 18%
• Predicted that 476 tonnes carbon has been emitted from agri soils
• In general, meat and dairy have the biggest footprint of carbon, raw materials and water per KG of any food.
• Contribution from agri has resulted in:
• Deforestation
• Biodiversity loss
• Accelerated soil erosion
• Loss of organic matter
• Water pollution

Question 3

Climate change affects agri (challenges)

Answer 3

• Increased heat stress and disease for livestock
• Increase in exotic pests and invasive species
• Drought
• Flooding
• Increased need for irrigation due to lack of soil moisture
• Loss of land
• Location of crop growth will change
• Land degradation

Question 4

Climate change affects agri (opportunities

Answer 4

• New crop varieties
• Longer growing season
• Decreased risk of damage from autumn frost
• Improved land management