Coin Press - Climate change: A farm in Rotterdam

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Climate change: A farm in Rotterdam

A project that houses cows in a floating barn aims to demonstrate how farming can change its relationship with water and energy.

An overview of the issue of climate change and its effects on agriculture?

Climate change is no longer just a future threat, but a present reality that is already having a significant impact on agriculture worldwide. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns and an increase in extreme weather events pose immense challenges for farmers and threaten

The global average temperature has increased by about 1.1 degrees Celsius since pre-industrial times. This warming is leading to changes in the growing conditions for many crops. Some plant species are sensitive to higher temperatures, which can lead to reduced yields and quality losses. For example, grain filling can be affected in

Changing precipitation patterns and water scarcity
Climate change also affects precipitation patterns, leading to droughts in some regions and flooding in others. Water scarcity is becoming an increasingly pressing problem, especially in areas of intensive agricultural use. Without sufficient irrigation, plants suffer from drought stress, which inhibits growth and reduces yields. On the other hand, heavy rainfall and flooding

Increase in extreme weather events
More frequent and intense extreme weather events such as heat waves, storms and frost periods are having a significant impact on agricultural production. Such events can destroy entire harvests, damage infrastructure and have long-term effects on soil fertility. Farmers have to adapt to unpredictable weather conditions, which makes

Spread of pests and diseases
With rising temperatures and changing climate conditions, pests and plant diseases are also spreading into new areas. Insects, fungi and viruses that were previously limited by climatic conditions can now infest larger areas. This increases the demand for pesticides and poses additional challenges for organic farming.

Impacts on animal husbandry
Livestock farming is also affected by climate change. Heat stresses farm animals and can lead to reduced growth, lower milk production and increased mortality rates. In addition, climate change affects the availability of forage crops and water, which makes animal husbandry even more difficult.

Adapting cultivation practices: Crop rotation, conservation tillage and the use of cover crops can maintain soil fertility and increase resilience to extreme weather.
Breeding climate-resistant varieties: Developing plants that can better cope with heat, drought or flooding is crucial for future food security.
Efficient irrigation systems: Technologies such as drip irrigation reduce water consumption and help to use water more efficiently.
Early warning systems: Weather forecasts and warning systems can help farmers to be better prepared for extreme weather events.
Diversification: Diversifying crops and income sources helps farmers to better cushion risks.

Policy support and global cooperation
Tackling the effects of climate change on agriculture requires policy support and international cooperation. Investments in research and development, education, and infrastructure are necessary to support farmers in their adaptation efforts. Furthermore, it is important to reduce global emissions to mitigate further climate change.

Conclusion
Climate change poses a serious threat to agriculture and global food security. However, the effects can be mitigated through proactive adaptation measures, innovation and political support. It is crucial to act now to safeguard agriculture for future generations and ensure the sustainable nutrition of the world's population.

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South Korea in Crisis: President Yoon Suk Yeol's Coup Shakes the NationIn a stunning and unprecedented move, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has attempted to seize absolute power, plunging the nation into political chaos. On the night of December 3, President Yoon declared martial law, suspended the National Assembly, and deployed soldiers to surround its premises, effectively paralysing the country’s democratic institutions. The world is watching in shock as one of Asia’s most stable democracies faces an uncertain future.The Coup: A Nation in ShockThe events unfolded rapidly on a cold December night, leaving South Koreans and the international community reeling. President Yoon cited national security threats and alleged internal dissent as justification for his actions, but critics are calling it a blatant power grab. By suspending the National Assembly—South Korea’s legislative body—Yoon has undermined the very foundation of the nation’s democratic system.Eyewitnesses reported heavy military presence in the capital, Seoul, as soldiers and armoured vehicles took positions near government buildings. Communication networks were temporarily disrupted, adding to the confusion. The swift and calculated nature of the coup suggests months of planning, raising questions about who within the government and military may have supported the move.Immediate Reactions: Outrage and ResistanceThe coup has sparked widespread outrage among South Koreans. Protesters took to the streets in major cities, waving banners and chanting slogans calling for Yoon’s resignation. Opposition leaders condemned the move as a betrayal of the democratic values South Korea has upheld since its transition from military rule in the 1980s.International leaders, including the US-President Joe Biden who is still in office until 20 January 2025 and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, have expressed grave concern. The United Nations has called for an emergency session to address the situation, while human rights organisations warn of potential crackdowns on dissent.What Led to This Crisis?President Yoon’s tenure has been marked by polarising leadership and a growing divide between conservatives and progressives. Critics argue that his administration’s inability to address pressing economic challenges, such as rising housing costs and youth unemployment, eroded public trust. Yoon’s approval ratings had plummeted in recent months, and his administration faced mounting scrutiny over alleged corruption scandals.While Yoon’s justification for the coup includes vague references to national security threats, experts believe the move was motivated by a desire to cling to power amidst growing opposition. Some speculate that internal disagreements within his party and the prospect of impeachment may have pushed Yoon to take drastic action.The Role of the MilitaryThe military’s involvement in the coup is particularly troubling for a country with a history of authoritarian rule. South Korea transitioned to a democracy in 1987 after decades of military dictatorship, and the armed forces have since remained apolitical. Yoon’s ability to mobilise the military raises questions about divisions within the armed forces and whether dissenting voices exist among its ranks.Should significant portions of the military oppose Yoon’s actions, the possibility of a counter-coup or internal conflict could further destabilise the nation.Implications for South Korea’s FutureThe attempted coup casts a shadow over South Korea’s hard-earned reputation as a thriving democracy. Its political stability and economic strength have made it a key player in the global arena, but this crisis threatens to derail decades of progress.Domestically, the suspension of democratic institutions could lead to widespread unrest, civil disobedience, and a protracted power struggle. Economically, investor confidence is likely to plummet, jeopardising South Korea’s status as a global technology and trade hub.On the international stage, the coup could strain alliances, particularly with the United States, which has long regarded South Korea as a crucial ally in countering North Korea and maintaining regional stability. China and North Korea, meanwhile, may view the situation as an opportunity to exploit South Korea’s weakened state.The Road Ahead: Democracy or Dictatorship?The fate of South Korea now hinges on the response of its citizens, political leaders, and international allies. Opposition parties have called for immediate action to restore democracy, including mass protests and legal challenges. Meanwhile, world leaders face the delicate task of pressuring Yoon’s government while avoiding escalation.The unfolding crisis serves as a stark reminder that even the most established democracies are not immune to authoritarian tendencies. 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