Aditi Vohra
Climate-stressed agriculture presents a growing threat to global food systems, intensifying a "triple burden" that encompasses food insecurity, nutrient decline, and deteriorating public health. This paper examines the multifaceted impacts of climate change on agriculture, focusing on how altered agro-climatic conditions disrupt food availability, reduce crop nutrient quality, and pose risks to population health. Rising temperatures, unpredictable precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events have led to significant yield losses, affecting both staple and horticultural crops. These changes compromise the nutritional value of food through reduced protein and micronutrient content and increased post-harvest nutrient losses. Furthermore, the resulting nutritional deficiencies and food insecurity contribute to a rise in diet-related non-communicable diseases and exacerbate existing health disparities, particularly among vulnerable populations. The paper explores the complex feedback loops between agriculture, nutrition, and health, emphasizing the need for integrated responses that consider socioeconomic and policy dimensions. Key mitigation strategies discussed include climate resilient agricultural practices, biofortification, improved storage and distribution systems, and nutrition-sensitive policies. By adopting a systems-based approach and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration, it is possible to build resilient food systems that safeguard both nutritional quality and public health under climate stress.
Pages: 19-23 | 89 Views 48 Downloads