Altered Precipitation Patterns Research Articles

Context‐dependent impact of changes in precipitation on the stability of grassland biomass

Abstract Community stability plays a crucial role in ensuring the consistent provision of ecosystem services despite environmental changes, including alterations in precipitation patterns. Over the past decades, significant progress has been made in understanding the responses of the stability of grassland plant communities and underlying mechanisms, defined as the ratio of the temporal mean biomass to the standard deviation. However, a crucial knowledge gap remains regarding whether the impacts of precipitation on the stability of grassland biomass are contingent upon specific contextual factors. Here, we examined the stability of above‐ and below‐ground biomass in adjacent grass‐ and shrub‐dominated communities through a 7‐year manipulation experiment involving seven precipitation levels: 20%, 40% and 60% decrease, as well as 20%, 40% and 60% increase in natural rainfall, in addition to ambient precipitation. We found that the stability of community biomass was influenced by three contextual factors including the magnitude and directionality of precipitation, above‐ and below‐ground biomass and the type of vegetation. In particular, higher and more intense precipitation resulted in higher stability of above‐ground biomass in both grass‐ and shrub‐dominated communities. Conversely, higher precipitation intensity led to decreased below‐ground biomass stability in grass‐dominated communities but increased below‐ground biomass stability in shrub‐dominated communities. Species stability and species asynchrony consistently played a positive role in explaining the stability of above‐ground biomass in both grass‐ and shrub‐dominated communities. However, species asynchrony negatively influenced below‐ground biomass stability in grass‐dominated communities without a comparable effect in shrub‐dominated communities. The preeminent contribution to the total community biomass was identified in the stability of below‐ground biomass, evident in both grass‐dominated and shrub‐dominated communities. Synthesis. This study highlights that while the specific effects of changes in precipitation may vary depending on the context, the fundamental processes governing biomass stability are consistent. These findings elucidate the desert steppe ecosystems' adaptive response to precipitation variations and emphasize their pivotal role in maintaining ecosystem functions under climatic perturbations. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Modeling the natural vegetation dynamic under climate change scenarios in coastal protected dryland of southeastern Tunisia

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), climate change is mainly manifested by severe droughts and rainfall decrease. These effects are multiple and vary from one region to another around the world including rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns and degradation of the natural flora. The Zarat region (Gulf of Gabes) is notable for its climate variation, shallow waters, high levels of temperature and salinity. Understanding the vegetation dynamics in this coastal protected region under climate change scenarios is important for projection to the whole ecosystems. The Maxent model is used to predict the potential distribution of plant groups and Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) classes for many future time-periods (2021-2040, 2041-2060, 2061-2080 and 2081-2100) under different climate change scenarios in the Zarat region. Main results indicate that variables related to precipitation and temperature are more significant for predicting plants and SAVI classes distributions. Our findings can provide scientific basis for the dryland sustainable management and for plant community’s behavior under climate change.

Impacts of Climate Change on Groundwater Resources in Afghanistan: A Case Study of Kandahar Province

This paper presents a case study examining the impacts of climate change on groundwater resources in the Kandahar province of Afghanistan. The study assesses the vulnerability of groundwater sources to changing climatic patterns and explores the implications for water availability, quality, and sustainability in the region. Through a combination of field surveys, hydrogeological investigations, and analysis of climatic data, the research aims to provide insights into the specific challenges faced by Kandahar province in managing its groundwater resources in the context of a changing climate. The findings of the study reveal the significant influence of climate change on groundwater availability, with altered precipitation patterns and increasing temperatures leading to shifts in recharge rates and aquifer dynamics. Moreover, the study examines the potential exacerbation of water stress, groundwater depletion, and saltwater intrusion in coastal areas due to rising sea levels and changing rainfall patterns. The insights derived from this case study contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between climate change and groundwater resources, providing valuable knowledge for policymakers, water resource managers, and stakeholders involved in sustainable water management and climate adaptation initiatives in Afghanistan.

Effects of Climate Change on Horticulture Sector Productivity: A Review

This comprehensive analysis provides a thorough examination of the significant influence of climate change variability on the horticultural yield. The focus is specifically on recent trends and changing patterns within various major sectors of horticulture, namely Pomology, Olericulture, Floriculture, Post-Harvest, and Landscaping. The impact of rising temperatures altered precipitation patterns, and increased occurrences of extreme weather events is profoundly transforming the horticultural landscape. By delving into in-depth analyses of recent studies, this article sheds light on noteworthy changes in flowering and fruiting patterns in Pomology, as well as alterations in phenological stages in Olericulture. Furthermore, it highlights the innovative approaches in controlled-environment agriculture that have been adopted in Floriculture. The effects of climate change on post-harvest processes and the adoption of novel technologies are also explored within the context of post-harvest. Additionally, the integration of horticulture and landscape architecture is emphasized as a crucial strategy in adapting Landscaping practices to the variability brought about by climate change. The review is supported by various facts that illustrate global temperature anomalies, fruiting periods, phonological shifts, impacts on flower quality, adoption rates of post-harvest technologies, and the integration of horticulture and landscape architecture. The main objective of the review is to offer a brief understanding on the impact of climate change on horticultural productivity. Ultimately, the review highlights the urgent need to implement adaptive strategies and sustainable practices across diverse sectors of horticulture to ensure resilience in the face of ongoing climate change. This study suggests that vertical farming, climate resilient landscaping, Genomic Wide Association Studies, and Smart Breeding of crops as well as Controlled Environmental Agricultural methods might be suitable to encounter climate change.

Genome-wide analysis of PvMADS in common bean and functional characterization of PvMADS31 in Arabidopsis thaliana as a player in abiotic stress responses.

Changing climatic conditions with rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns pose significant challenges to agricultural productivity, particularly for common bean crops. Transcription factors (TFs) are crucial regulators that can mitigate the impact of biotic and abiotic stresses on crop production. The MADS-box TFs family has been implicated in various plant physiological processes, including stress-responsive mechanisms. However, their role in common bean and their response to stressful conditions remain poorly understood. Here, we identified 35 MADS-box gene family members in common bean, with conserved MADS-box domains and other functional domains. Gene duplication events were observed, suggesting the significance of duplication in the evolutionary development of gene families. The analysis of promoter regions revealed diverse elements, including stress-responsive elements, indicating their potential involvement in stress responses. Notably, PvMADS31, a member of the PvMADS-box gene family, demonstrated rapid upregulation under various abiotic stress conditions, including NaCl, polyethylene glycol, drought, and abscisic acid (ABA) treatments. Transgenic plants overexpressing PvMADS31 displayed enhanced lateral root development, root elongation, and seed germination under stress conditions. Furthermore, PvMADS31 overexpression in Arabidopsis resulted in improved drought tolerance, likely attributed to the enhanced scavenging of ROS and increased proline accumulation. These findings suggest that PvMADS31 might play a crucial role in modulating seed germination, root development, and stress responses, potentially through its involvement in auxin and ABA signaling pathways. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the potential roles of PvMADS-box genes in abiotic stress responses in common bean, offering prospects for crop improvement strategies to enhance resilience under changing environmental conditions.

Review of climate change impact on water availability in the USA and Africa

This research paper reviews the impact of climate change on water availability in the USA and Africa. Global climate change trends reveal rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increasing extreme events, all influencing water resources. The diverse regional contexts in the USA encompass issues such as prolonged droughts, changing snowmelt patterns, and coastal vulnerabilities. In Africa, heightened susceptibility arises from dependence on rain-fed agriculture, contributing to increased aridity and intensified rainfall. Temperature changes and precipitation patterns emerge as critical factors influencing water availability, necessitating adaptive strategies. Both regions implement water conservation, infrastructure development, sustainable practices, and broader policies addressing emission reduction and community-based adaptation. Policy implications underscore the need for integrated water resource governance, climate-resilient infrastructure, and international collaboration. This review provides a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved, offering insights for effective adaptation and mitigation measures in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Critical Analysis and Ameliorative Strategies in Combating the Impact of Climate Variability on Pesticide Dynamics and Efficacy

Background: The importance of pesticides in the economy especially in agriculture, cannot be over-emphasized. It is therefore very crucial to uphold and maintain the efficacy of these pest control agents. This study seeks to explore the effect of climate variables on the potency of pesticides. Climate change has emerged as one of the most significant global challenges, disrupting weather patterns and altering ecosystems. These changes pose serious implications for pest dynamics, distribution, and behavior, thereby directly influencing the performance of pesticides. This study analyzed relevant articles related to climate change and pesticides systematically sourced from credible reference databases for a period of 21 years from 2002 to 2023, using the most suitable keywords. Recent scientific research and empirical evidence, analyzing the effects of rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and changing humidity levels on pests and their interactions with pesticide applications were studied. The relevant impact of these effects is seen in reduced agricultural yield, loss of livelihood and source of income, infestation and destruction of agricultural crops, and reduced living standard in the society amongst others. The projected changes include; the development of adaptive agricultural practices and integration of climate-resilient pest management strategies that could improve the efficacy of pesticides. This involves exploring the potential of eco-friendly and biologically-based pest control approaches to reduce the destructive impacts that arise from climate change. These sustainable practices and novel technologies aimed at improving pest control under changing climatic conditions must be encouraged and upheld tenaciously.

A Critical Review of Climate Change Impacts on Groundwater Resources: A Focus on the Current Status, Future Possibilities, and Role of Simulation Models

The Earth’s water resources, totalling 1.386 billion cubic kilometres, predominantly consist of saltwater in oceans. Groundwater plays a pivotal role, with 99% of usable freshwater supporting 1.5–3 billion people as a drinking water source and 60–70% for irrigation. Climate change, with temperature increases and altered precipitation patterns, directly impacts groundwater systems, affecting recharge, discharge, and temperature. Hydrological models are crucial for assessing climate change effects on groundwater, aiding in management decisions. Advanced hydrological models, incorporating data assimilation and improved process representation, contribute to understanding complex systems. Recent studies employ numerical models to assess climate change impacts on groundwater recharge that could help in the management of groundwater. Groundwater vulnerability assessments vary with the spatial and temporal considerations, as well as assumptions in modelling groundwater susceptibility. This review assesses the vulnerability of groundwater to climate change and stresses the importance of accurate assessments for sustainable water resource management. It highlights challenges in assumptions related to soil and aquifer properties, multiple stressors, adaptive capacity, topography and groundwater contamination processes, gradual sea level rise scenarios, and realistic representations of the region of study. With the advancements in hydrological modelling, including the integration of uncertainty quantification and remote sensing data, artificial intelligence could assist in the efforts to improve models for assessing the impacts of climate change on hydrological modelling.

Communally established cattle feedlots as a sustainable livelihood option for climate change resilience and food security in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review

Climate change poses a significant threat to agriculture and livestock production in sub-Saharan Africa, a region heavily reliant on livestock for smallholder farmers’ livelihoods. This systematic review investigates the potential of communally established cattle feedlots as a sustainable strategy to address the interconnected challenges of climate change resilience and food security in the area. The review focuses on the intensification of climate change, marked by rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns, posing a direct threat to the livelihoods of millions in the region. Conducting a systematic literature review, we meticulously analyzed 72 articles that centered on communally established cattle feedlots in sub-Saharan Africa. The inclusion criteria considered studies within the context of climate change resilience and food security, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Published articles, grey literature, and relevant reports were systematically sourced from academic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and Web of Science, complemented by manual searches of journals, conference proceedings, and organizational websites. The synthesis of findings reveals a nuanced landscape of successes and challenges associated with communal feedlots. Through a narrative synthesis, studies were categorized based on key themes, unraveling the impact of communal feedlots on livestock health, economic viability, and socio-economic dynamics. The review highlights the role of communal feedlots in mitigating climate-related shocks, enhancing livestock productivity, and fostering economic opportunities for smallholder farmers. However, challenges related to land tenure, community engagement, and resource allocation emerged as critical considerations. In conclusion, communally established cattle feedlots offer a holistic and sustainable approach to address climate change challenges in sub-Saharan Africa.

Analysis of Climate Change Impacts on Agricultural Production and Adaptation Strategies for Farmers: Agricultural Policy Perspectives.

Climate change poses significant challenges to agricultural production, impacting farmers globally. This journal article conducts an in-depth analysis of the effects of climate change on agricultural production and explores adaptation strategies from an agricultural policy perspective. The research employs a comprehensive review of existing literature, empirical data, and agricultural policies to assess the multifaceted implications of climate change on global food security. The study reveals the diverse impacts of climate change on agricultural systems, including altered precipitation patterns, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and shifts in temperature regimes. These changes result in disruptions to crop cycles, reduced yields, and heightened vulnerability for farmers. In response, the research identifies and evaluates various adaptation strategies implemented by agricultural policymakers. Adaptation strategies encompass a range of measures, including the development of drought-resistant crop varieties, improved water management practices, and the promotion of climate-smart agricultural techniques. The analysis extends to the assessment of policy frameworks that support the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, emphasizing the importance of integrating climate adaptation into broader agricultural policies. The article concludes with policy recommendations aimed at fostering a more resilient agricultural sector in the face of climate change. It underscores the need for collaborative efforts between policymakers, researchers, and farmers to ensure the effective implementation of adaptation strategies. By aligning agricultural policies with climate adaptation goals, nations can mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change on agricultural production and enhance the overall sustainability of the sector.

Ultra-fine bubble irrigation promotes coffee (Coffea arabica) seedling growth under repeated drought stresses

ABSTRACT Coffee plants are likely to be highly susceptible to changes in climate, and several statistical studies based on projections of altered precipitation patterns have predicted negative effects on coffee growth including the loss of suitable cultivation areas in most coffee-producing countries. Increased drought occurrences owing to climate change are expected to be a new challenge for stable coffee production, because coffee production relies heavily on stable rainfall conditions. In recent years, ultra-fine bubble (UFB) water has been reported to be effective in alleviating environmental stresses for plant growth, especially drought stress. The objective of the present study was to determine the effect of UFB water irrigation on the growth of coffee seedlings to mitigate the stress of repeated droughts. To simulate an environment with frequent droughts, six pot experiments were conducted over 3 years by applying repeated drought stress to coffee plants in a greenhouse. The results showed that UFB water had a remarkable growth-promoting effect on coffee seedlings under drought conditions. In contrast, no significant effect on coffee growth was observed in the environment with sufficient nutrients, in which additional fertilizer was used. UFB water significantly increases the root length and surface area of coffee plants, which may promote water absorption and prevent leaf senescence (leaf cell collapse) under drought conditions. This leads to coffee plants adapting to drought conditions. Therefore, UFB water irrigation may be an effective measure to promote coffee growth in drought conditions.

Հայաստանում կլիմայի փոփոխության հետևանքների գնահատումը. մարտահրավերներ, հնարավորություններ և քաղաքականության արձագանքներ / ASSESSING THE IMPLICATIONS OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN ARMENIA: CHALLENGES, OPPORTUNITIES, AND POLICY RESPONSES

Armenia, located in the South Caucasus, confronts significant challenges posed by climate change, including rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events. However, amidst these challenges lie opportunities for proactive adaptation and mitigation efforts. Renewable energy development, ecosystem restoration, climate-smart agriculture, efficient water resource management, climateresilient infrastructure, community engagement, capacity building, and international collaboration present avenues for addressing climate change impacts effectively. By capitalizing on these opportunities and implementing targeted policy responses, Armenia can enhance its resilience, promote sustainable development, and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. This paper assesses the implications of climate change in Armenia, delineates key challenges and opportunities, and outlines policy responses aimed at fostering climate resilience and sustainability.

Climate-change literacy of first year prospective physics teacher about long dry season phenomenon in Indonesia

Indonesia has characteristics of increasing temperatures that have yet to be widely known. Sudden temperature changes have brought many losses to Indonesians. The study was intended to analyze the level of scientific literacy on the climate-change material for prospective physics teachers in Indonesia. The study employs a qualitative methodology. The study also utilized descriptive analysis techniques by administering surveys to gather participant data. This study uses descriptive analysis techniques through the administration of surveys to collect data from participants. Increased emissions of greenhouse gases are a contributing factor to changes in temperature and climate. The escalation of greenhouse gas emissions in Indonesia leads to climate change as these gases envelop the Earth and trap the sun's heat, intensifying the greenhouse effect. The outcome entails elevated mean temperatures, alterations in precipitation patterns, and occurrences of severe weather events such as floods and droughts. Evaluating climate or temperature changes necessitates education. Education imparts knowledge about the significance of safeguarding the planet to maintain its well-being. Education plays a crucial role in addressing the challenge of climate change, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Altered intra-annual precipitation patterns affect the N-limitation status of soil microorganisms in a semiarid alpine grassland

The ongoing intensification of the hydrological cycle due to global climate change alters intra-annual precipitation variability. Changes in precipitation patterns lead to disparities in soil moisture; however, the responses of soil extracellular enzyme activities (EEAs) and microbial metabolism limitations to them is unclear. This study conducted an in situ field experiment in the alpine grasslands of the Kunlun Mountains to simulate the same amount of precipitation but change the distribution time of precipitation within the plant growing season. We examined the effects of variability in intra-annual precipitation patterns on the stoichiometry of topsoil (0–5 and 5–20 cm) properties, microbial biomass, and EEAs. Results showed that altered precipitation patterns significantly increased soil moisture’s disparity index (D) by 57 %–89 %. The activity of nitrogen-acquiring enzymes (L-leucine aminopeptidase) was increased by 20.82–32.08 % (P < 0.05) with increased variability of precipitation, while phosphorus-acquiring enzymes (Acid phosphatase) and carbon-acquiring enzymes (β-glucosidase) both decrease by 9.25–23.35 % and by 17.86–33.04 %, respectively (P < 0.05). We determined that soil microorganisms in the study region were metabolism-limited by nitrogen (vector angles < 45◦), and increased precipitation variability exacerbated nitrogen limitation (decrescent vector angles) and alleviated carbon limitation (shortened vector length). In addition, soil EEAs can be both interactively influenced by biotic and abiotic factors, with abiotic factors (i.e., D, soil organic carbon content, and soil total nitrogen content) having a stronger effect. Our study provides an effective strategy for regulating soil EEAs, microbial biomass, and microbial metabolism limitation and contributes to developing nutrient management and restoration strategies in semiarid alpine grassland ecosystems.

Metagenomics reveals effects of fluctuating water conditions on functional pathways in plant litter microbial community

Climate change modifies environmental conditions, resulting in altered precipitation patterns, moisture availability and nutrient distribution for microbial communities. Changes in water availability are projected to affect a range of ecological processes, including the decomposition of plant litter and carbon cycling. However, a detailed understanding of microbial stress response to drought/flooding is missing. In this study, an intermittent lake is taken up as a model for changes in water availability and how they affect the functional pathways in microbial communities of the decomposing Phragmites australis litter. The results show that most enriched functions in both habitats belonged to the classes of Carbohydrates and Clustering-based subsystems (terms with unknown function) from SEED subsystems classification. We confirmed that changes in water availability resulted in altered functional makeup of microbial communities. Our results indicate that microbial communities under more frequent water stress (due to fluctuating conditions) could sustain an additional metabolic cost due to the production or uptake of compatible solutes to maintain cellular osmotic balance. Nevertheless, although prolonged submergence seemed to have a negative impact on several functional traits in the fungal community, the decomposition rate was not affected.

Urban ecosystem services and climate change: a dynamic interplay

Urban ecosystems play a crucial role in providing a wide range of services to their inhabitants, and their functioning is deeply intertwined with the effects of climate change. The present review explores the dynamic interplay between urban ecosystem services and climate change, highlighting the reciprocal relationships, impacts, and adaptation strategies associated with these phenomena. The urban environment, with its built infrastructure, green spaces, and diverse human activities, offers various ecosystem services that enhance the wellbeing and resilience of urban dwellers. Urban ecosystems offer regulatory services like temperature control, air quality upkeep, and stormwater management, plus provisioning like food and water. They also provide cultural benefits, promoting recreation and community unity. However, climate change poses significant challenges to urban ecosystem services. Rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events can disrupt the functioning of urban ecosystems, impacting the provision of services. Heatwaves and urban heat island effects can compromise human health and energy demands, while changes in rainfall patterns can strain stormwater management systems and lead to flooding. Moreover, climate change can disrupt biodiversity and ecological processes, affecting the overall resilience and sustainability of urban ecosystems. To address these challenges, cities are adopting various adaptation strategies that recognize the interdependence between urban ecosystems and climate change. Green infrastructure interventions, such as the creation of urban parks, green roofs, and community gardens, aim to mitigate the impacts of climate change by enhancing the regulation of temperature, improving air quality, and reducing stormwater runoff. Additionally, urban planning and design approaches prioritize compact and walkable neighborhoods, promoting public transportation and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Furthermore, engaging communities in the management of urban ecosystems and climate change adaptation measures is crucial for ensuring equitable distribution of ecosystem services and building social resilience. Therefore, the review article highlights a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic interrelationship between urban ecosystem services and climate change and their implications. By recognizing and integrating the contributions of urban ecosystems, cities can develop sustainable and resilient strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change, ensuring the wellbeing and habitability of urban environments for present and future generations.

Divergent Temporal Trends of Mercury in Arctic Char from Paired Lakes Influenced by Climate-Related Drivers.

Climate-driven changes including rising air temperatures, enhanced permafrost degradation, and altered precipitation patterns can have profound effects on contaminants, such as mercury (Hg), in High Arctic lakes. Two physically similar lakes, East Lake and West Lake at the Cape Bounty Arctic Watershed Observatory on Melville Island, Nunavut, Canada are being affected by climate change differently. Both lakes have experienced permafrost degradation in their catchments; however, West Lake has also undergone multiple underwater Mass Movement Events (MMEs; beginning in fall 2008), leading to a sustained 50-fold increase in turbidity. This provided the unique opportunity to understand the potential impacts of permafrost degradation and other climate-related effects on Hg concentrations and body condition of landlocked Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus), an important sentinel species across the Circum-Arctic. Our objectives were to assess temporal trends in char Hg concentrations and to determine potential mechanisms driving the trends. There was a significant decrease in Hg concentrations in East Lake char, averaging 6.5%/year and 3.8%/year for length-adjusted and age-adjusted means, respectively, from 2008 to 2019. Conversely, in West Lake there was a significant increase, averaging 7.9%/year and 8.0%/year for length-adjusted and age-adjusted mean Hg concentrations, respectively, for 2009 to 2017 (the last year with sufficient sample size). The best predictors of length-adjusted Hg concentrations in West Lake were carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios, indicating a shift in diet including possible dietary starvation brought on by the profound increase in lake turbidity. Our study provides an example of how increasing lake turbidity, a likely consequence of climate warming in Arctic lakes, may influence fish condition and Hg concentrations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:2712-2725. © 2023 His Majesty the King in Right of Canada and The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC. Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Impact of Heavy Metals on the Climate Change

One of the most significant issues facing decision-makers who are committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals as outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is climate change. The effects of climate change are already being seen, including rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, changes in ocean currents, melting of ice sheets, rising sea levels, and an increase in the frequency and severity of sea level events. Other effects include melting permafrost, retreating glaciers and ice sheets, an increase in fire-friendly weather, and an increase in the frequency and severity of extreme weather events. This has caused the climate change, including an increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide, along with other climate gasses. Increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, cyclones, and heavy rain, which may affect water quantity and quality, are among them. The primary releases of hazardous chemicals like heavy elements have increased, and this has had an impact on the climate. Keywords: Heavy metals; climate change, Air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, sediment pollution, measure control pollution.

Climate change and its impact on agriculture

Climate change is a global phenomenon that poses significant challenges to various sectors including agriculture. As the Earth's climate undergoes unprecedented changes due to human activities, the implications for agricultural systems and food production are profound. Rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns and more frequent extreme weather events are transforming the agricultural landscape and posing risks to global food security. In this context, this discussion will delve into the impact of climate change on agriculture, focusing on how changing climatic conditions affect crop production, food availability and the livelihoods of farming communities. We will explore the specific challenges posed by climate change, the vulnerabilities of agricultural systems and the measures needed to build resilience and ensure sustainable food production in the face of a changing climate. By comprehending the intricacies of climate change and its impact on agriculture, we can foster awareness, drive policy changes and promote practices that promote the long-term sustainability and resilience of agricultural systems. Through collective action and innovative approaches, it is possible to navigate the challenges posed by climate change and secure a future where agriculture can thrive amidst a changing climate.

Prediction of Water Quality in Reservoirs: A Comparative Assessment of Machine Learning and Deep Learning Approaches in the Case of Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia

The effective management of surface water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of water quality status. Altered precipitation patterns due to climate change may significantly affect the water quality and influence treatment procedures. This study aims to identify the most suitable water quality prediction models for the assessment of the water quality status for three water supply reservoirs in Toowoomba, Australia. It employed four machine learning and two deep learning models for determining the Water Quality Index (WQI) based on five parameters sensitive to rainfall impact. Temporal WQI variations over a period of 22 years (2000–2022) are scrutinised across 4 seasons and 12 months. Through regression analysis, both machine learning and deep learning models anticipate WQI gauged by seven accuracy metrics. Notably, XGBoost and GRU yielded exceptional outcomes, showcasing an R2 value of 0.99. Conversely, Bidirectional LSTM (BiLSTM) demonstrated moderate accuracy with results hovering at 88% to 90% for water quality prediction across all reservoirs. The Coefficient of Efficiency (CE) and Willmott Index (d) showed that the models capture patterns well, while MAE, MAPE and RMSE provided good performance metrics for the RFR, XGBoost and GRU models. These models have provided valuable knowledge that can be utilised to assess the adverse consequences of extreme climate events such as shifts in rainfall patterns. These insights can be used to improve strategies for managing water bodies more effectively.