IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON PHOTOSYNTHESIS AND PLANT PRODUCTIVITY

Abstract

Climate change, characterized by elevated atmospheric CO₂ concentrations, rising temperatures, and altered precipitation patterns, significantly affects photosynthesis and overall plant productivity. Research indicates that while elevated CO₂ can initially stimulate photosynthetic activity through the CO₂ fertilization effect, long-term productivity gains are constrained by nutrient limitations, water stress, and temperature-induced photorespiration. Studies in rice, wheat, maize, and soybean have shown yield reductions of 10–25% under combined heat and drought stress. Moreover, shifts in stomatal conductance, chlorophyll fluorescence, and Rubisco activity provide critical insights into the physiological impacts of climate stress. This paper synthesizes experimental evidence from Free-Air CO₂ Enrichment (FACE) studies, controlled chamber experiments, and field trials to evaluate how climate change alters photosynthetic efficiency and crop yields. The results highlight the need for climate-resilient crop varieties, improved agronomic practices, and biotechnological interventions to sustain global food production under a changing climate.