Optimization of Ecosystem Services in Tropical Sustainable Agriculture Under Climate Change: A Multi-Dimensional Analysis of Smallholder Farming Systems

Abstract:

This study explores the optimization of ecosystem services (ES) in tropical smallholder agricultural systems amid climate change, focusing on provisioning (food production), regulating (carbon sequestration, pest control), and supporting (soil fertility) services. Using a mixed-methods approach—including field surveys (3,000 smallholder farms across 10 tropical countries), remote sensing (2020–2023), and participatory action research—we identify key climate-induced disruptions: 30–40% decline in pollinator activity (reducing crop yields by 15–20%), 25% increase in soil erosion (lowering soil organic carbon by 18%), and 35% variability in rainfall (disrupting water regulation). We evaluate three sustainable practices: agroforestry, cover cropping, and integrated pest management (IPM), finding that agroforestry enhances carbon sequestration by 45–55% and improves soil fertility by 30%, while IPM reduces pesticide use by 60% and boosts natural pest control by 40%. Regional case studies (Ghana, Brazil, India) highlight context-specific barriers: limited access to agroforestry seedlings (Ghana), low awareness of cover cropping benefits (Brazil), and insufficient policy support for IPM (India). The study concludes that targeted interventions—including farmer training programs, seed subsidies, and policy incentives—can increase adoption of ES-enhancing practices by 42%. These findings provide actionable strategies for strengthening ES in tropical sustainable agriculture under climate change.