Climate Change and Food Production: An Economic Analysis of Environmental Stress on Agricultural Sustainability

Abstract

Climate change has emerged as a defining global challenge of the 21st century, particularly in its profound impact on food production systems. Rising global temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and increasing frequency of extreme weather events disrupt agricultural productivity and threaten food security across both developed and developing nations. Indonesia, with its dependence on climate-sensitive agriculture, is especially vulnerable. This study investigates the relationship between climate change and food production through a qualitative textual analysis using economic theory. It aims to analyze how climatic variables influence food output, pricing, and sustainability, as well as to assess adaptive strategies within the agricultural sector. Drawing from international and Indonesian academic sources, the research integrates economic-environmental models with socio-ecological data to synthesize a grounded understanding of systemic shifts in food production dynamics. The findings suggest that the interaction between climate volatility and food systems is multi-dimensional. Significant negative impacts on rice, maize, and vegetable yields were found, especially in tropical zones. Institutional weaknesses and the lack of resilient infrastructure compound these effects. However, local adaptations—ranging from technological inputs to traditional ecological knowledge—offer promising pathways. This research highlights the importance of robust policy interventions, regional cooperation, and climate-smart agriculture. By embedding climate resilience into economic frameworks and food governance, nations can ensure more stable and equitable food systems in a warming world.