Hello readers. Welcome to #SolutionMonday on CleanbuildVoices!

Industries around the world are experiencing the harsh impacts of the changing climate but one sector that is experiencing it the most – and mostly because it is dependent on the climate – is the agricultural sector (even though it contributes greatly to climate change).

Changing weather patterns are particularly unfair to farmers who rely on the weather, disrupting their farming activities and their farms’ abilities to produce enough yield for themselves and enough to trade. This means now, more than ever, farmers need to start adapting their farms for the looming impacts of the changing climate.

So, what can farmers do to prepare their farms for the impending impacts of climate change (if they aren’t already experiencing it)?

Not to worry. Below are ways you can be on top of the situation and ensure your farms are resilient to climate change.

Be proactive

From the climate-induced events happening around the world, you already know what you’re up against. It is, therefore, important for you to be prepared and conduct your research on what it would look like in your area since impacts differ per area.

After conducting your own research and having an idea about what the impacts are expected to be, you can begin planning on how you’ll mitigate the effects.

For example, if intense rainfall and flooding are going to become more common, you may consider improving the drainage system in your farm. If droughts are going to be more frequent, you may consider researching irrigation systems and how you can buy one or build one for your farm.

Search and apply for funding

You’re going to need funding to adapt to the changing weather patterns because there’s every likelihood that you’ll be needing new infrastructure – which doesn’t come cheap.

The example cited in the first point above on getting irrigation systems comes into play here. You can check online for programs and sources that fund climate adaptation for farmers.

Experiment

You can try experimenting with crops to encourage adaptation. Start by finding crops or varieties that will be better adapted to your new growing conditions and test their viability.

You can also explore ways you can ensure your farm isn’t too hot or dry by keeping it cool (try installing irrigation or planting hedgerows).

Collaborate

Two heads are definitely better than one. Try working collaboratively with other farmers as this will help broaden your ideas.

You can start a town hall meeting where you can have conversations about developing local solutions to the climate crisis.