Climate Change Induced Crisis in Western Mediterranean Agriculture
The agricultural sector, dealing with the impacts of climate change, is making production preparations under tough conditions. Farmers are trying to adapt to rapidly changing climate conditions as they plant new seeds, prepare their greenhouses, and get ready for winter.
According to the drought map published by the General Directorate of Meteorology for the 2024 agricultural season, the western coast of Antalya, along with Muğla, Denizli, and Afyon, are marked as "extremely dry" areas. Isparta, Burdur, and central Antalya fall under "moderate and slightly dry" regions. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has accelerated efforts in water efficiency and flood management in the Western Mediterranean.
Nazif Alp, President of the Antalya Chamber of Agriculture, noted a 40% decrease in rainfall in agricultural basins in the Mediterranean region compared to last year, stressing that this has severely impacted agricultural production.
YIELDS FALLING, FARMERS STRUGGLING
Alp pointed out that significant losses have occurred in agricultural production in 2024 due to drought, with the effects of climate change felt more intensely each year. Yield losses during harvest season can lead farmers to struggle financially, even causing some to stop planting. Alp emphasized, "Now is the time for planting in agricultural areas. Greenhouses are being prepared, and summer conditions are being managed. Support for farmers to carry out planting, irrigation, and spraying is essential. If farmers don’t plant, life stops."
WINTER PLANTING DELAYED
Due to drought, many producers in and around Antalya had to delay winter planting. Alp explained, "Producers are trying to operate under long dry spells and intense rains. Being in the Mediterranean basin, our country is among those most affected by climate change. Our farmers are finding it challenging to adapt to these changes and variations." He added that because rainfall doesn’t occur in expected seasons but instead exceeds norms in other seasons, farmers struggle to protect their crops.
AUTUMN RAINS INSUFFICIENT
Alp stated that autumn rains have decreased significantly in recent years, and temperatures have been above normal. Since 2019, rainfall in September, October, and November has been below expected levels, causing the soil to dry faster. This trend continued into 2024, with Alp noting, "We no longer see autumn rains as we used to."
DROUGHT-RESISTANT SEEDS ARE ESSENTIAL
Alp stressed that farmers need to shift to more productive seed varieties to cope with climate change, saying, "Drought-resistant seed varieties should be developed. Pressurized irrigation systems should be expanded, and irrigation costs should be reduced. New loans for farmers should be interest-free." He added that Antalya is a vital region where agricultural production occurs year-round, playing a significant role in meeting the country’s food needs.
