Climate Impacts and Challenges in Agriculture, Forests and Food Systems: Perspectives on the Global South

This is an open access book. Agri-food systems and forests significantly impact global climate change, they contribute to over one-third of greenhouse gas emissions, through among others deforestation and food supply chains. They are also vulnerable to climate change effects. These sectors have diverse capacities for adaptation and mitigation, which can be harnessed through aligned strategies. Food security and socio-economic issues highlight the need for climate-conscious food policies. This book examines the diversity of adaptation and mitigation strategies needed at multiple levels—genetic, agronomic, policy, trade, and finance—to transform agriculture and food systems in response to climate change. Systemic, context-specific transitions are essential, considering diverse bioclimatic and socio-economic conditions. These include evolving dominant models, shifting diets, reducing waste, and re-localizing food systems. Research plays a pivotal role in guiding transitions, and this book compiles high-quality research for informed discussions.