Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) has emerged as a pivotal approach to addressing the interlinked challenges of climate change, food security, and agricultural sustainability. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of CSA practices, evaluating their efficacy in enhancing adaptive capacity, mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and improving productivity. Through a systematic review of 120 peer-reviewed studies, meta-analysis of field trial data, and case studies from diverse agro-ecological zones, we analysed three core CSA pillars: sustainable land and water management, climate-resilient cropping systems, and integrated soil fertility management. Our findings demonstrate that CSA practices can significantly improve system resilience, with conservation agriculture increasing water use efficiency by 15-30% and drought-resistant varieties sustaining yields under moderate heat stress. Regarding mitigation, practices like improved rice management and agroforestry showed potential to reduce GHG emissions by 20-50% compared to conventional methods. However, trade-offs were identified; for instance, while no-till farming enhances soil carbon sequestration, it may initially increase herbicide use. The adoption of CSA is heavily influenced by socio-economic factors, with smallholder farmers facing significant barriers including high initial investment costs, limited access to credit and information, and insecure land tenure. Successful implementation requires context-specific solutions, strong policy support, and effective knowledge dissemination systems. We conclude that CSA represents a viable pathway for transforming agricultural systems toward greater climate resilience and sustainability, but its potential can only be realized through integrated approaches that address both biophysical and socio-economic dimensions of agricultural adaptation.

traditional practices, adaptation, climate-smart agriculture, resilience, mitigation

environmental engineering

Presentation: poster