Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
be intensified for such identification of climate change resilient organisms
from unexplored regions.
7.11 CLIMATE CHANGE AND NUTRITIONAL SECURITY IN
ISLANDS
An increase in temperature may have significant effect on the quality of
fruits, vegetables, aromatics and medicinal plants
. The nutritional quality of
cereals and pulses may also be moderately affected which in turn, will have consequences
for our nutritional security. A combination of action on climate change adaptation and
mitigation supported by research and technological development can reduce the threats to
food and nutrition security.
Climate change negatively affects food availabil-
ity, conservation, access and utilization and exacerbates socioeconomic
risks and vulnerabilities. Further, declining local production and probable
disruptions caused by climatic hazards, the income generating opportu-
nities and purchasing power will decrease for vulnerable populations,
which ultimately affect the food and nutritional security. The CARI has
made significant attempt in identifying nutrients rich underutilized fruit
and vegetable crops, which can supplement the ongoing nutritional secu-
rity schemes (Singh et al., 2005). However, efforts need to be intensified
for finding high density nutrient sources and climate resilient alternative
livelihood options for ensuring proper nutrition to the marginal sections
(Singh et al., 2013).
7.12
CLIMATE CHANGE AND PLANTATION CROPS
The plantation crops are major source of income in islands and prelimi-
nary investigations indicate that climate change will affect the flowering
and nut setting season. Further, the quality of nut water and copra con-
tent will also be affected. The islands have great diversity in coconut and
arecanut, thus proper survey and vigilance should be ensured to see the
influence of climate change and response of existing plantation diversity
in islands. Further, efforts are required for identifying the suitable crop
management practices, which can mitigate the influence of climate change
and increase the productivity for plantations.
