The multifaceted impact of climate change on agricultural productivity: a systematic literature review of SCOPUS-indexed studies (2015–2024)
Abdikarim Farah, Mohamud Ahmed Mohamed, Osman Sayid Hassan Musse, Bile Abdisalan Nor
Abstract
This study examines the multifaceted impacts of climate change on agricultural productivity. A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted using the SCOPUS database, following PRISMA guidelines. The study targeted peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2024, leading to the selection of 77 high-quality studies. Thematic analysis was employed to categorize research into key themes, including agricultural productivity, climate adaptation, food security, and technological advancements. The review finds that climate change significantly impacts global agricultural productivity, with projections indicating up to a 14% decline in food production by 2050 if adaptation measures are not implemented. Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices enhance productivity by 10.5% and profitability by 29.4% but face barriers such as financial constraints and inadequate infrastructure. Soil and water management strategies, such as cover cropping, conservation tillage, and high-efficiency irrigation, have proven effective in improving resilience but require policy and financial support for large-scale adoption. Technological innovations, including AI-driven precision farming, satellite-based climate monitoring, and early warning systems, offer promising solutions but require integration with farmer education and policy incentives. Policy interventions such as carbon pricing, climate-resilient subsidies, and trade liberalization can mitigate climate risks and promote sustainable agricultural practices. This study emphasizes that a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach integrating technology, policy, and socioeconomic factors is critical for developing resilient agricultural systems. Policymakers, researchers, and agricultural practitioners must collaborate to bridge knowledge gaps, enhance access to adaptation resources, and implement sustainable agricultural practices. Future research should focus on long-term adaptation strategies, improved governance frameworks, and inclusive policies that prioritize vulnerable farming communities to ensure global food security amid climate uncertainties. Clinical trial number: Not applicable.