Climate Change and Sustainable Agriculture: Pathways to Resilience, Productivity and Decarbonisation

Abstract

Climate change is exerting profound effects on global agriculture by altering temperature regimes, rainfall patterns, and the frequency of extreme weather events. These shifts directly influence crop yields, livestock productivity, soil health, and water availability, thereby posing critical threats to global food security. The agricultural sector, however, is not merely a passive victim; it also plays a significant role in greenhouse gas emissions, especially methane and nitrous oxide. This duality positions agriculture as both a challenge and an opportunity in the fight against climate change. This review consolidates current knowledge on climate change impacts and the range of sustainable agricultural responses, highlighting key opportunities, trade-offs, and policy enablers.  Sustainable agriculture offers pathways to adapt to changing climatic conditions while simultaneously contributing to mitigation. Practices such as conservation agriculture, agroforestry, crop diversification, improved water management, soil organic carbon enhancement, and the adoption of climate-resilient crop varieties are emerging as robust solutions. Similarly, livestock-focused strategies—including improved feed efficiency, methane inhibitors, and integrated farming systems—are proving vital in reducing emissions while maintaining productivity. Emerging technologies such as enhanced rock weathering, precision agriculture, and digital climate advisory systems further expand the toolkit for resilience and sustainability. The future of agriculture under climate change depends on the effective integration of these solutions into context-specific strategies that balance productivity, adaptation, and mitigation goals. Achieving this requires not only scientific and technological innovation but also supportive governance structures, equitable access to resources, and capacity building for farmers across diverse socio-economic settings. This review emphasises that resilient and sustainable food systems can be achieved through a portfolio of practices tailored to local conditions, aligned with global decarbonization goals, and grounded in principles of equity and long-term ecosystem stewardship.