In the heart of the Philippines, where the sun beats down relentlessly and the rain pours in torrents, coconut farmers in Barangay Capasnan, Manay, Davao Oriental, are grappling with a formidable foe: climate change. This region, dubbed the “Coconut Capital” of the country, is a powerhouse of agricultural productivity, but the shifting climate is taking a toll on the crop’s sustainability and the livelihoods of those who depend on it. A recent study led by Chinna M. Bentayao, a researcher at the Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Davao Oriental State University, sheds light on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of these farmers in the face of climate change.
The study, published in the Journal of Tropical Crop Science, reveals a stark picture. Nearly all farmers (94%) are acutely aware of climate change and its impacts, recognizing how it alters temperature, rainfall patterns, and exacerbates extreme weather events, pests, and diseases. “We see the changes every day,” says one farmer. “The rains are unpredictable, and the heat is more intense. It’s affecting our crops and our lives.”
Despite this awareness, the farmers’ preparedness and adaptive practices tell a more complex story. While many farmers engage in knowledge-sharing and seek alternative income sources, the adoption of water-saving irrigation, drought-resistant crops, and soil conservation practices remains moderate. This gap highlights a critical need for more robust support systems and adaptive technologies.
The commercial implications are significant, particularly for the energy sector. Coconut products, including coconut oil, are increasingly used as biofuels. A decline in coconut productivity due to climate change could disrupt the supply chain for these renewable energy sources, affecting both local economies and global energy markets. As Bentayao notes, “The sustainability of coconut farming is not just an agricultural issue; it’s an energy issue as well.”
The study also underscores the need for emotional and mental support for farmers. The psychological toll of climate change, coupled with financial strain, can be overwhelming. Financial assistance, access to resilient crop varieties, and climate-smart agricultural training are among the recommendations to bolster farmers’ resilience.
Looking ahead, this research could shape future developments in several ways. It underscores the urgency of integrating climate-smart practices into agricultural policies and support systems. It also highlights the need for innovative technologies and financial mechanisms to help farmers adapt. Moreover, it calls for a more holistic approach that addresses not just the technical aspects of farming but also the emotional and psychological well-being of farmers.
As the world grapples with the realities of climate change, the experiences of coconut farmers in Barangay Capasnan serve as a microcosm of the broader challenges and opportunities in sustainable agriculture. The findings, published in the Journal of Tropical Crop Science, offer valuable insights that could inform policy, technology, and support systems for farmers worldwide. The path forward requires a concerted effort from policymakers, researchers, and communities to ensure that coconut farming remains a viable and sustainable enterprise in the face of a changing climate.