Md. Saffat Hossain

Climate change is an ongoing phenomenon. From the past to the future, climate change is a must-have characteristic of nature. Our agriculture is dependent on climate, our livestock are dependent on the environment, so all food sources are interconnected with nature. But the question is, are we ready to change our food habits?

In recent years, especially in the last 10 years, the climate change process has reached a dangerous level. This situation puts our ecosystem and food at risk. Climate change is having a significant impact on agriculture, posing challenges to food security and sustainable farming practices. High Temperatures, Irregular Precipitation, Disasters extreme weather events, etc., are the most crucial situations for agriculture that affect food.

As we see, higher temperatures can lead to heat stress in crops, reducing yields and affecting quality. Also changes in temperature patterns can disrupt the timing of planting, flowering, and harvesting, impacting crop cycles. Besides, increased frequency and severity of droughts can lead the scarcity of water, affecting irrigation and crop productivity. Moreover, heavy rainfall and flooding can damage crops, erode soil, and wash away the important nutrients of crops. Those are the issues that are happening due to climate change. As our food is fully dependent on agriculture and we are not ready to prevent the bad impact of climate change, we are not ready to change our food system.

So, what should we do? We need adaptation and mitigation of climate change and its effects. Practices like conservation agriculture, agroforestry, and sustainable water management can help mitigate climate change and adapt to its impacts. Growing a variety of crops can reduce risk and improve resilience to climate variability. Efficient irrigation technologies can help manage water resources more effectively. We have to make stronger technology to be forewarned about extreme natural events and the preparation to prevent them. The most important thing is the backup of those crucial events when our food will not be easy and affordable to all. While climate change presents significant challenges, it also offers opportunities for innovation. Developing climate-resilient crop varieties and innovative agricultural technologies can enhance the affordability of food. By embracing sustainable practices, investing in research, and making informed dietary choices, we can build a more resilient and equitable food system for the future.

Yet the question remains, are we ready to make the necessary changes to our food habits? Answer lies in our commitment to sustainability and the well-being of future generations.

The writer is a, Master’s of Science & student of Geography and Environment Department, Govt. Shahid Suhrawardy College, Dhaka.