A natural phenomenon with greater consequences
El Niño is a natural climate pattern that affects weather around the world every few years.
This time, however, it is developing alongside record global temperatures driven by climate change.
According to the FAO, this combination increases the likelihood of extreme heat, prolonged droughts, disrupted rainfall and significant impacts on agriculture.
Agriculture must prepare
The FAO highlights several major risks:
more frequent heatwaves; higher irrigation demand; lower crop yields; disrupted planting calendars; increased pressure on water resources.
Preparing in advance will be essential for improving resilience.
Gardeners can also adapt
Home gardeners can reduce heat stress by:
mulching generously; watering during the coolest hours; improving soil with compost; providing temporary shade for sensitive crops; selecting heat-tolerant varieties.
Small adjustments can make gardens far more resilient during extreme summers.
Stronger local food systems
Climate uncertainty makes local food production even more valuable.
By helping neighbours and small producers give, sell or exchange locally grown food, Seeed supports shorter supply chains, reduces food waste and strengthens community resilience.
Every local harvest shared today helps prepare for tomorrow's climate challenges.
Sources FAO – Extreme heat in an El Niño year: how agrifood systems can prepare FAO – Climate Change News