POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON AGRICULTURE

Chikaire, J. Nnadi, F.N., Nwakwasi, R.N., Anyoha, N.O.,  Aja O.O.,

 Onoh, P.A., and Nwachukwu, C.A

Department of Agricultural Extension,

 Federal University of Technology, Owerri.

E-mail: bankausta @ yahoo.com.

ABSTRACT

Climate includes patterns of temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind and seasons. Climate change affects more than just a change in weather, it refers to seasonal changes over a long period of time.These climate patterns play a fundamental role in shaping natural ecosystems, and the human economics and cultures that depend on them. Because so many systems are tied to climate, a change in climate can affect many related aspects of where and how people, plants and animals live, such as food production, availability and use of water and health risks. Analysis of the impacts of climate change suggests that agro-ecological system is the most vulnerable sectors. Further warming is expected to reduce crop productivity adversely. It seems obvious that any significant change in climate on a global scale should impact on local agriculture, and therefore affect the world food supply.

KEY WORDS: Climate change, Agriculture