New Zealand's agriculture sector is set to face significant challenges over the next decade, driven primarily by climate change, extreme weather events, and declining water quality. A recent study conducted by Lincoln University highlights these as the top three hurdles affecting farming practices in the country.
The comprehensive research surveyed over 280 leaders in agribusiness, Maori enterprises, policymakers, and academics, who evaluated more than 70 international and domestic factors to determine their potential impact on land use in New Zealand. The findings underscore the urgent need for adaptive strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of a changing climate.
Experts warn that the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, coupled with ongoing issues in water quality, could significantly disrupt agricultural productivity and sustainability. These challenges not only threaten the livelihoods of farmers but also have broader implications for New Zealand's economy and food security.
As the sector braces for these changes, stakeholders are calling for collaborative efforts to develop resilient farming practices and invest in sustainable technologies that can help mitigate the impact of these environmental challenges.
Reference(s):
Extreme weather to impact farming for next 10 years: experts
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