Factors influencing the adoption of climate smart agricultural practices in Grenadian nutmeg agro-ecosystems

Keywords: climate smart agriculture, climate change, agroecosystem, Grenada, Caribbean
Abstract Type: Paper Abstract

Abstract

As a Small Island Developing State, Grenada’s agricultural sector is highly vulnerable to climate change and its associated impacts. Climate change forecasts predict decreased annual rainfall and increases in the magnitude of hurricane events in the region, which is anticipated to impact the principal export crop, nutmeg. Nutmeg is a shade-loving plant that is best grown in a hot humid climate with no pronounced dry season. However, most nutmeg farmers have noticed a decrease in rainfall and its predictability which has impacted their crop production. As such, this paper provides an assessment of the type of climate-smart agricultural (CSA) practices adopted, and the factors influencing its adoption in Grenadian nutmeg agro-ecosystems. While nutmeg production systems are inherently climate-smart, additional CSA practices are promoted to farmers to build the resilience of the industry. A survey conducted with three hundred and thirty-six farmers selected by stratified random sampling across the three main agroclimatic zones provided information on farm characteristics, social characteristics, and responses to climatic stresses. Findings suggest that while most farmers practice CSA activities, only a few farmers know of CSA. Additionally, factors influencing the adoption of CSA include formal training, relationship with extension officers, crop yield, soil type, environmental risk, and erosion. However, the factors influencing the adoption of CSA practices differ for water, soil, and crop management practices. As such, differences in the factors influencing the adoption of CSA activities should be considered in the promotion of CSA in Grenada.