Impacts of climate change on the yields of rice (Oryza sativa L.) in the Llanos Zone, Colombia

Abstract

The effects of climate change on strategic sectors of local economies have become a priority for governments, scientists and academics in recent decades. In this sense, the objective of the present study was to estimate the relationship of dryland rice yields with climatic and economic variables. For this, the ordinary least squares method was applied, using a database corresponding to the period 1990 to 2016 of the rice producing area called Llanos in Colombia. Among the results it is highlighted that the maximum temperature has significant effects, while deficits or excess rainfall have a negative impact on rice yield. Likewise, cultural tasks such as preparing the land have adverse effects on rice yield, while the use of fertilizers positively affects them. Finally, it is concluded that the impacts of climate change on production yields will depend on the magnitude of the change in climate variables, as well as adaptation strategies that lead to the development of good agricultural practices and efficient use of resources.