CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS AND ADAPTATIONS IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR: 2020 SURVEY OF FARMERS’ PERCEPTIONS IN 14 CITIES AND TOWNS, IBARAKI

Abstract

 The present paper examines farmers’ perceptions of climate change and their current and potential future measures for adaptation. We conducted a questionnaire survey in December 2020 of 4,275 certified farmers in 14 cities and towns in Ibaraki Prefecture, and examined climate change impacts and the farmers’ adaptations using statistical and geographical analyses.

 It was found that 1) more than 90% of respondents had already experienced some damage due to climate change, such as decreased yield, poor growth, and/or an increase in insect pests; 2) their current adaptations included applying agrochemicals (including pesticides), changing the planted cultivars, and water treatment; and 3) their potential future adaptations included changing the planted cultivars, adjusting the crop calendar, water treatment, and changing the type of crops planted. In addition, factors affecting the adaptive behaviors included experience of damage due to climate change, awareness of climate change, and knowledge of measures for adaptation.