Integration of Climate Smart Agro-Technologies and Efficient Post- Harvest Operations in Changing Weather Conditions in Nigeria

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the integration of climate-smart agro-technologies and efficient post-harvest operations in changing weather conditions in Nigeria. Agriculture, which is the mainstay of most rural families in Nigeria, has faced several problems in recent times as a result of variety of factors such as post-harvest losses, climate change fluctuations, and high poverty level resulting in poor agricultural outputs and low income. Empirical studies have indicated that food production and income growth of farming households would be worse-off, if climate change is not properly mitigated. The combination of climate-smart agro-technologies and effective post-harvest management operations in this era of unfavorable climatic condition and post-harvest losses has become imperative. Climate smart agriculture consists of a three-win approach; for long-term food supply and security. It also comprises of three important goals such as mitigation, adaptation, and increased production. Agro-climate smart technologies includes solar energy techniques for drying agricultural product, green house technology for cultivation, climate resilient storage structures for storing harvested grains, and climate smart waste usage for agricultural waste management. Efficient post-harvest management operations such as proper harvesting, sun-drying, threshing, processing, packaging, and transportations were also explored. This study advocated the adoption of climate smart agro- technologies and efficient post-harvest management operations as an alternative measures for increased food production and farm income in the face of changing weather and climatic conditions. How to Cite: Anosike F. C., Obasi I. O., Nwachukwu E. U., Obi J. N., Orji J. E., Inyang P., Chinaka I. C., Osang E. A., Iroegbu C. S., Nzeakor F. C., Onu S. E., 2023. "Integration of Climate Smart Agro-Technologies and Efficient Post- Harvest Operations in Changing Weather Conditions in Nigeria." Journal of Agriculture and Crops, vol. 9, pp. 281-292.