Impact of Climate Change on Crop Productivity and Adaptation Strategies of Small-Scale Farmers in Cambodia's Mekong Delta Region

Swe Zin Myint Mo

Bakalářská práce

Abstract:

Small-scale farmers in the Mekong Delta Region of Cambodia face increasing challenges due to climate change, which affects soil fertility, water availability, and overall crop production. This study explores the impact of climate change on small-scale farmers, their adaptation strategies, the challenges impacting crop production, and the role of agricultural training in enhancing their resilience. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study gathered data from 50 farmers through field observations, open-ended questions, and structured questionnaires. Quantitative data were analysed using the Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test to examine associations between categorical variables. Qualitative data from open-ended questions and field observations were analysed thematically to identify recurring patterns and farmer perceptions. The results indicate that decreased crop yield and financial instability have resulted from changing weather patterns, prolonged droughts, declining soil fertility, and increased insect infestations. To overcome these challenges, farmers have adopted several strategies, such as drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, net houses, soil management methods, crop selection adjustments, and planting schedule changes. Among the several obstacles that still need to be overcome are limited market access, financial constraints, and a lack of technological expertise. The study also highlights how crucial agricultural training programs are and indicates that agricultural training increases the likelihood that farmers will adopt and support climate change adaptation methods. Expanding knowledge sharing programs and improving access to financial and institutional resources are essential to increasing farmers' ability to adapt to climate change. These findings provide development experts and policymakers with helpful guidance for advancing sustainable agricultural adaptation in Cambodia.

Keywords

Cambodia, Mekong, climate change adaptation, sustainable agriculture, smallholder farmers, agricultural training

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 19. 4. 2025

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Obhajoba proběhla 26. 5. 2025
• Vedoucí: Ing. Tereza Pilařová, Ph.D.
• Oponent: Rammah Zwan, M.Sc.

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Fakulta tropického zemědělství

Bakalářský studijní program:
International Cooperation in Agricultural and Rural Development