Scientific studies indicate an increase in global average temperatures, a phenomenon leading to adverse environmental responses. These impacts, such as prolonged droughts and heavy rains, directly affect agriculture and, consequently, global food security.
However, science-based measures can be adopted to mitigate the effects of climate change, with sustainable agriculture serving as a major ally in this process.
Since 2011, Brazil has dedicated March 16th to the National Climate Change Awareness Day, established by Law No. 12,533 to reflect on global warming and encourage mitigation actions.
If you want to learn more about this topic and how agriculture can be part of the solution, continue reading this text.
What are climate change and what causes global temperature to rise?
Climate change refers to significant modifications in global climate patterns, mainly caused by rising temperatures due to the accumulation of greenhouse gases (GHGs) like CO₂ and methane in the atmosphere. This concentration of GHGs stems from human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, industry, and intensive agriculture.
It’s important to note that 73% of global emissions come from fossil fuel combustion, while agricultural activities and land use changes account for about 20% of global emissions. This results in extreme weather events like prolonged droughts, flooding, and heatwaves.
How should we act?
Each of us plays an essential role in mitigating climate change. Small individual actions, when multiplied by millions, can have a significant impact. Reducing energy consumption, opting for sustainable transportation, and adopting more conscious consumption habits are steps that make a difference.
However, responsibility goes beyond individuals. Mobilizing efforts with governments and companies to implement stricter, more sustainable environmental policies is crucial for large-scale change. This includes promoting responsible use of natural resources, supporting practices that reduce GHG emissions, and transitioning to renewable energy sources instead of fossil fuels.
Sustainable agriculture is an essential ally
The adoption of sustainable agricultural practices is crucial to addressing climate change challenges and ensuring food security. Researchers from the Center for Carbon Research in Tropical Agriculture (CCARBON/USP) have highlighted the importance of these practices. Their studies focus on mitigation and adaptation strategies, such as no-till farming, Integrated Crop-Livestock-Forest Systems (ILPF), and cover crops, which contribute to soil conservation, organic matter, and atmospheric carbon capture while reducing GHG emissions.
Efficient fertilizer use and crop rotation also help reduce emissions and enhance soil carbon storage. Strengthening public policies for sustainable agriculture ensures more efficient, accessible, and environmentally responsible production. This will bring benefits not only to rural producers but also to society and the planet as a whole.
Main references:
Cerri, C. E., Cherubin, M. R., Villela, J. M., Locatelli, J. L., Carvalho, M. L., Villarreal, F., Fujita, F., Ibrahim, M. A., & Lal, R. (2024). Carbon farming in the living soils of the Americas. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 8, 1481005. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2024.1481005
Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais. Dia Nacional da Conscientização sobre as Mudanças Climáticas. Disponível em < https://www.gov.br/inpe/pt-br/assuntos/ultimas-noticias/dia-nacional-da-conscientizacao-sobre-as-mudancas-climaticas > Acesso em: 06 de mar. 2025.
