A recent study reveals that Africa is set to breach the 1.5°C climate change threshold, as indicated by the Paris Agreement, by 2040 across all five subregions, regardless of low emission scenarios. This alarming prediction calls for urgent attention towards developing climate-resilient agricultural practices, despite Africa’s low contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions. A framework has been established to guide transitions toward sustainable policies in agriculture.
Recent research published in CABI Reviews indicates that all five subregions of Africa are projected to surpass the critical 1.5°C climate change threshold as established by the Paris Agreement by the year 2040, even under scenarios involving low greenhouse gas emissions. Conducted by a consortium including scientists from the University of Zimbabwe and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), this literature review forms a framework for facilitating a just transition in Africa’s agricultural sector toward climate-resilient and low-emission development paths.
The study highlights that Africa contributes less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, yet all subregions of the continent are expected to approach the 1.5°C threshold before 2040. This finding underscores the urgency of addressing climate change impacts on the continent’s agricultural systems and establishes the need for strategic adaptations despite regional emission levels. The framework aims to guide policy and decision-makers in developing sustainable agricultural practices in the face of climate variability.
Photographic evidence shows the day-to-day challenges faced by pastoralists in regions such as South Omo, Ethiopia, illustrating the tangible effects of climate change on their livelihoods as they navigate issues such as water scarcity. This research not only reveals alarming trends but also seeks to encourage multi-sectoral cooperation to bolster Africa’s resilience against climate change, emphasizing collective action to mitigate its adverse effects.
In conclusion, the study reveals that Africa will reach the 1.5°C climate change threshold as early as 2040, despite its minimal contribution to global emissions. This alarming prediction necessitates immediate attention and coordinated efforts to strengthen agricultural resilience and implement sustainability practices across all subregions. Policymakers and stakeholders must actively engage in developing adaptive strategies to alleviate the impending impacts of climate change on the continent.
Original Source: www.cgiar.org
