The Impact of Climate Change on Food Production and Undernourishment in Developing Countries

Abstract

This thesis estimates the impact of climate change on food security in developing countries using panel data from 90 developing countries from 1990 to 2020. Employing the system-GMM method, the study analyzes food security, focusing on food availability (Food Production Index, FPI) and food access (Prevalence of Undernourishment, PoU). The findings highlight the influence of lagged values, with the previous year's food production and undernourishment affecting current outcomes. Temperature changes significantly impact food production, with lower temperatures positively affecting production and higher temperatures negatively affecting vice versa. However, Asia exhibits a positive response, possibly due to climate-induced changes in food production patterns. Climate-related disasters exacerbate undernourishment, emphasizing the adverse effects of climate change on food security. Furthermore, GDP growth and population growth rate negatively associate with undernourishment, while food imports and inflation show a positive correlation. Meanwhile, the impact of food aid varied across regions and income groups. These research findings provide valuable foundational resources to inform the formulation of policies and strategies aimed at improving food security in these nations. In conclusion, this thesis emphasizes the significance of region and income-specific proactive measures for climate crisis response and sustainable food production. In this process, it is essential to develop systematic strategies that consider the level of national development and climate vulnerability.