Mapping Research Priorities for Climate Change Adaptation in Agriculture: A One Health Perspective.

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Environmental Health
• One Health Framework

Background:

• Climate change significantly threatens agricultural productivity, worker health, and animal welfare.
• Adaptation strategies are crucial for long-term mitigation of climate change impacts in agriculture.
• This study focused on identifying research priorities for climate change adaptation in agriculture, specifically for protecting agricultural workers and livestock.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and map research priorities for climate change adaptation in agriculture.
• To focus on protecting the health of agricultural workers and livestock animals.
• To inform future research directions and interventions.

Main Methods:

• A participatory, mixed-method approach using group concept mapping was employed.
• Faculty members brainstormed ideas to reduce health risks for agricultural workers and livestock amid climate change.
• Ideas were sorted and rated for importance and feasibility by participants.

Main Results:

• Five key research clusters emerged: wildfire smoke impacts, basic science, extreme weather forecasting, tradeoffs, and occupational health/labor.
• Research priorities include understanding wildfire smoke effects and developing adaptive strategies for climate change impacts on humans and livestock.
• A quarter of the research areas integrated all three pillars of the One Health framework.

Conclusions:

• Current research primarily focuses on risk management, with insufficient emphasis on the One Health framework.
• Transdisciplinary collaboration and education are essential for effectively applying the One Health approach to agricultural climate adaptation.
• Future efforts should prioritize integrated strategies that encompass human, animal, and environmental health.