A significant 75% of farmers globally are either already feeling the effects of climate change or are deeply concerned about its future impacts, according to the 2024 Farmer Voice survey. The survey conducted by Kynetec for Bayer polled 2,000 farmers from India, Brazil, the United States, China, and Germany. The findings highlight reduced yields, pest attacks, and revenue loss as primary challenges exacerbated by climate change.

Among the respondents, 71% expressed concerns over reduced crop yields. Six out of 10 farmers reported facing considerable revenue losses due to extreme weather events, which have become increasingly common in recent years. In response, farmers are looking to technological innovation, with 75% open to adopting new solutions to build resilience and improve yields.

In India, pest attacks emerged as the top concern, with 41% of farmers reporting crop damage due to pests, leading to increased expenditure on pesticides. Volatile weather patterns were also a challenge for 36% of Indian farmers. Rising input costs—particularly for crop protection chemicals like herbicides and insecticides—combined with labour shortages were cited by 36% and 32% of respondents, respectively.

Additionally, Indian farmers voiced concerns about the economic volatility of farming, including fluctuating prices for fertilizer, energy, and seeds. Access to new technologies, education on modern techniques, and market access were also highlighted as significant hurdles.

Despite these challenges, most Indian farmers are optimistic about the role of technology in mitigating climate change impacts. Eight in 10 farmers expressed willingness to adopt new farming practices and technologies, though many face barriers due to high costs and lack of accessibility.

Regenerative agriculture, which emphasizes soil health and sustainability, is widely practised by Indian farmers, with around 80% using at least four to five regenerative techniques. However, there remains a gap in understanding, as one-third of the farmers were unfamiliar with the term "regenerative agriculture" despite practising its principles.

Rodrigo Santos, President of Bayer’s Crop Science Division, emphasized the need for innovation to help farmers navigate these growing challenges. He underscored the importance of regenerative agriculture to boost food production, farm incomes, and climate resilience while protecting the environment. "Farmers are already leading the way, with over 90% using at least one regenerative practice," Santos noted, calling for a collective effort from farmers, businesses, and society to make food systems more resilient.

The 2024 Farmer Voice survey sheds light on the growing concerns of farmers worldwide as they grapple with the twin challenges of climate change and economic pressures, highlighting the need for greater support in the form of innovation, education, and access to sustainable technologies.