Agriculture Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Mitigation: Assessing the Disposition of Nigerian Urban Farmers

Abstract

Agriculture is the sector most vulnerable to climate change (CC), yet it contributes significantly to the problem, directly accounting for approximately 13.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Although CC mitigation has gained a lot of attention in research, there is a notable lack of understanding regarding Nigerian farmers’ awareness and perception of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions mitigation strategies. This study aimed to explore the knowledge of CC and disposition towards adoption of GHG emissions mitigation measures among 358 urban farmers in Nigeria. The participants were randomly selected for online survey questions to ascertain their awareness and dispositions towards agricultural GHG emissions and mitigation. Descriptive statistics and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used to analyze the data. The study found that farmers possess a moderate level of awareness about CC. Motivation of the farmers to adopt strategies for mitigating GHG emissions was moderately high but not as high as expected. No significant difference between the motivations of urban farmers to mitigate GHGs from different states. Urban farmers were willing to adopt climate-friendly practices to reduce GHG emissions. Urban farmers are encouraged to reduce the rate at which they use chemical fertilizers and implement sustainable livestock management practices while the government provide training and extension services for them.