Agriculture and climate change: Main findings and proposals for decision-making in two natural regions of Peru

Abstract

Extreme weather phenomena linked to climate change are affecting the productivity of crops which are the main food sources nationwide, such as potatoes, wheat, barley, beans and corn. In addition, the absence of comprehensive agricultural extension and technical assistance programs limits the development of the agricultural sector. In this context, this research offers proposals for decision-making in two natural regions of Peru (the coast and highlands). Plans are required for the sustainable use of water resources, the prioritizing of crops better adapted to mid- or high-altitude regions, the establishing of specialized quality control laboratories, and the implementation of methodologies for risk assessment under different agroclimatic scenarios.