Climate Change, Water and Food Security

The impacts of climate change on the global hydrological cycle are expected to vary the patterns of demand and supply of water for agriculture--the dominant use of freshwater. This report summarizes knowledge of the anticipated impacts of climate change on water availability for agriculture and examines the implications for local and national food security. It analyzes expected impact of climate change on a set of major agricultural systems at risk and makes the case for immediate implementation of "no-regrets" strategies which have both positive development outcomes and make agricultural systems resilient. It is hoped that policy makers and planners can use this report to frame their adaptation responses when considering both the water variable in agriculture and the competing demands from other users.