CLIMATIC CHANGE: IMPLICATION ON POULTRY PRODUCTION
| PAGES = 50 | CHAPTERS = 1 – 5 |
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Climate change stands as one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our era. There is a widespread agreement among scientists, economists, and policymakers that the entire planet is grappling with a significant and enduring threat posed by climate change (Obioha, 2009; Hanseur, Baethgeri, Osgood, Ceceato, et al, 2007).
Experts forecast that by the close of the 21st century, climate change will have a profound impact on agricultural productivity, thereby influencing efforts to alleviate poverty (Goni et al., 2011).
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IGPC, 2007) characterizes climate change as statistically significant shifts in climate that last for extended periods, usually decades or more. This includes changes in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, as well as a gradual rise in the global average surface temperature. The primary drivers of these changes are increased greenhouse gas emissions, notably carbon dioxide (FAO, 2008).
Climate change results from both direct and indirect human activities, impacting the Earth’s atmospheric conditions and contributing to global warming. Raymond and Victoria (2008) highlight that climate change has the potential to disrupt all natural systems, posing threats to human development and survival on social, political, and economic fronts. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s 2007 assessment indicates that human activities are highly likely to be the main cause of global warming, with a 90% or greater probability attributed to human actions. Human practices, such as burning coal and oil and various agricultural and industrial activities, are altering the atmospheric composition and exacerbating climate change by increasing greenhouse gas concentrations, which in turn intensify the greenhouse effect.
Climate change represents a significant challenge to agricultural development both in Africa and globally. Africa is particularly at risk because its agriculture largely depends on rain, making it highly susceptible to weather fluctuations (Watson, Zintower, and Moses, 1987). Climate change impacts agriculture in various ways, including its direct effects on food production. According to Ozor et al. (2010), all agricultural sectors—crops, livestock, pastoralism, and fisheries—rely on weather and climate, and their vulnerability means that rural farmers may face severe setbacks or complete failure of their annual farming plans due to the effects of climate change.
The Poultry Site (2009) noted that poultry production is especially at risk from climate change because birds can only endure a narrow range of temperatures. Potential adverse effects on poultry include heat stress for both indoor and outdoor flocks, decreased egg production and growth rates at higher temperatures, increased mortality rates, a higher prevalence of certain parasites, and increased appetite among birds, among other issues.
Statement of the Problem
Poultry production is increasingly vital for providing animal protein and serves as a key income source. According to FAO (2010), poultry meat now accounts for approximately 33% of total global meat production.
Despite its importance, poultry farming is highly susceptible to climate change due to the birds’ limited tolerance for temperature variations. Research indicates that the performance of poultry is closely linked to environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, sunlight, housing conditions, and ventilation. For instance, elevated temperatures and humidity levels can significantly impact poultry by raising body temperature, reducing feed intake and efficiency, lowering body weight, increasing mortality rates, and diminishing egg production and quality (Ozbey and Oscellic, 2004).
Climate change brings forth challenges related to both reduced productivity and higher production costs. This raises a crucial question: Are poultry farmers aware of and knowledgeable about the threats posed by climate change?
This study aims to address this question and explore other related issues concerning the impact of climate change on poultry production in Delta State.
Purpose of the Study
The primary aim of this study is to explore the impact of climate change on poultry production in Delta State. The specific objectives are to:
i. Investigate the demographic profiles of poultry farmers in Delta State.
ii. Evaluate the farmers’ awareness regarding the effects of climate change.
iii. Identify the sources of information that farmers use about climate change.
iv. Determine how climate change affects poultry production.
v. Assess the strategies poultry farmers are implementing to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Hypotheses
The following hypotheses have been proposed to direct the study:
i. There is no significant correlation between demographic characteristics and the measures taken to address the impacts of climate change.
ii. Demographic characteristics of poultry farmers do not significantly influence their awareness of climate change implications.
Significance of the Study
The poultry sector within Nigeria’s livestock industry is recognized as a promising area to address the country’s protein deficiencies. However, the sector is hindered by challenges, particularly those related to climate change. This study on the effects of climate change on poultry production is crucial as it will provide valuable insights and tools to improve production practices and guide policymakers. The findings are expected to help poultry farmers discover local technologies and strategies that can assist in adapting to the challenges posed by climate change.
Limitations of the Study
Several obstacles affected the depth of this research. Financial constraints were significant, as traveling to the study site and acquiring necessary materials were costly. As an undergraduate student, the heavy academic workload limited the time available for a more comprehensive investigation. Additionally, finding relevant materials for the research proved challenging.