The Global Threat of Aridity to Agriculture

The recent United Nations report marks the alarming threat of aridity on global agriculture. Released during COP16 in Riyadh, it reveals that 40 per cent of arable land is affected by the lack of water resources. This research puts stress on the urgent need for action against the degradation of agricultural systems caused by persistent aridity. By 2040, projections indicate an increase in arid regions, exacerbating food security challenges worldwide.

About Aridity and Drought

Aridity is a long-term condition characterised by insufficient moisture. It differs from drought, which is a temporary phenomenon. Droughts occur due to short-term climatic variations, leading to immediate water shortages. In contrast, aridity reflects a chronic lack of moisture necessary for sustaining agriculture. This distinction is crucial for understanding the ongoing impacts on food production.

Impact on Crop Yields

The report reveals that aridity is the primary driver of agricultural degradation. It predicts losses in major crops by 2040, including maize, rice, soybeans, and wheat. Even regions experiencing increased rainfall may suffer due to higher evaporative demands, negatively affecting crop yields. This relationship marks the complexity of agricultural sustainability in the face of climate change.

Statistical

The data indicates a concerning trend – 77.6 per cent of Earth’s land has become drier over the last three decades. This shift threatens food security, particularly in countries reliant on imports. Increased food prices and production crises could lead to severe shortages. The report emphasises the need for global cooperation to address these challenges.

Regional Vulnerabilities

Certain regions are more vulnerable to the impacts of aridity. Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, and South Asia are particularly at risk. Projections suggest that crop production in sub-Saharan Africa could decline by mid-century. For instance, maize production in Kenya may drop by half due to rising temperatures and evaporative demands. These trends necessitate urgent adaptive measures in agriculture.

Future Projections

Looking ahead, the report warns that the situation will worsen if greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise. The expected increase in aridity will further challenge agricultural systems. Countries must develop strategies to mitigate these risks and enhance resilience in their food production systems.

Policy Implications

The findings call for immediate policy interventions. Governments must prioritise sustainable agricultural practices and invest in water conservation techniques. International cooperation is vital for sharing knowledge and resources to combat the effects of aridity on food security.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the distinction between aridity and drought and their respective impacts on agriculture.
2. Estimate the potential impact of climate change on global food security by 2040.
3. Point out the regions most vulnerable to aridity and discuss their socioeconomic implications.
4. What are the key strategies for mitigating the effects of aridity on agricultural systems? Provide suitable examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the distinction between aridity and drought and their respective impacts on agriculture.

1. Aridity is a long-term condition of insufficient moisture, while drought is a short-term phenomenon.
2. Droughts lead to immediate water shortages, impacting crop yields temporarily.
3. Aridity causes chronic agricultural degradation, leading to sustained declines in crop production.
4. While droughts can be dramatic and capture attention, aridity’s subtle effects are harder to quantify but more pervasive.
5. Both affect food security, but aridity leads to long-term challenges that require ongoing adaptation strategies.

2. Estimate the potential impact of climate change on global food security by 2040.

1. Projected increase of arid areas by 3.9% could lead to crop yield losses.
2. Estimated losses include 20 million tonnes of maize, 19 million tonnes of rice, and 21 million tonnes of wheat.
3. Countries reliant on food imports will face heightened risks from price spikes and supply crises.
4. Increased evaporation rates in some regions may negate benefits from higher precipitation.
5. Overall, climate change is expected to exacerbate existing food security challenges globally.

3. Point out the regions most vulnerable to aridity and discuss their socioeconomic implications.

1. Sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa, and South Asia are identified as highly vulnerable regions.
2. In sub-Saharan Africa, crop production could decline by 17-22% by mid-century due to aridity.
3. Increased food insecurity may lead to higher reliance on food imports, impacting local economies.
4. Rising food prices and production crises could exacerbate poverty and social unrest.
5. Adaptation measures are crucial to mitigate these socioeconomic impacts and ensure food security.

4. What are the key strategies for mitigating the effects of aridity on agricultural systems? Provide suitable examples.

1. Implement sustainable agricultural practices such as crop rotation and conservation tillage.
2. Invest in water conservation techniques like rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation.
3. Promote research and development of drought-resistant crop varieties.
4. Encourage agroforestry to enhance soil moisture retention and biodiversity.
5. International cooperation for knowledge sharing and resource allocation is essential for effective mitigation.