Understanding Farmers' Responses to Climate Change: A KAP Study Among Apricot Farmers in Malatya, Türkiye

Abstract

The present study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of apricot farmers in the Akçadağ district of Malatya, Türkiye, with regard to climate change, and to identify the main factors influencing their adaptive capacity. The primary research data were obtained in 2025 using a structured questionnaire applied to 94 farmers selected by proportional sampling from a population of 6,945 registered farmers. The KAP framework was utilized as an analytical instrument to evaluate awareness levels, behavioral tendencies, and adaptation strategies. Statistical analyses, incorporating t-test, chi-square test, and descriptive measures, were employed to investigate differences between upland and lowland farmers with regard to socioeconomic characteristics and adaptive responses. The analysis demonstrates that farmers' comprehension of climate change is predominantly informed by observable climatic anomalies, including rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, drought, and frost events. The exposure to these risks varies significantly with altitude; upland areas exhibit greater vulnerability to frost, flooding, and water scarcity. The findings of this study indicate that elevation and microclimatic conditions are critical determinants of adaptive capacity. While awareness of climate change is relatively widespread, causal perceptions are mainly associated with industrial activities and deforestation, while the contribution of agricultural production remains underrecognized. Farmers tend to adopt practices that are low-cost, require limited technical knowledge, and are consistent with traditional production systems. The study concludes that awareness alone is not sufficient to foster behavioral adaptation toward climate-resilient agriculture. Strengthening adaptive capacity requires integrated policy measures that enhance extension services, provide financial incentives, and improve access to technological infrastructure. It is imperative that region-specific strategies, particularly for high-altitude areas, be implemented in order to increase resilience against climatic hazards.

The present study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of apricot farmers in the Akçadağ district of Malatya, Türkiye, with regard to climate change, and to identify the main factors influencing their adaptive capacity. The primary research data were obtained in 2025 using a structured questionnaire applied to 94 farmers selected by proportional sampling from a population of 6,945 registered farmers. The KAP framework was utilized as an analytical instrument to evaluate awareness levels, behavioral tendencies, and adaptation strategies. Statistical analyses, incorporating t-test, chi-square test, and descriptive measures, were employed to investigate differences between upland and lowland farmers with regard to socioeconomic characteristics and adaptive responses. The analysis demonstrates that farmers' comprehension of climate change is predominantly informed by observable climatic anomalies, including rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, drought, and frost events. The exposure to these risks varies significantly with altitude; upland areas exhibit greater vulnerability to frost, flooding, and water scarcity. The findings of this study indicate that elevation and microclimatic conditions are critical determinants of adaptive capacity. While awareness of climate change is relatively widespread, causal perceptions are mainly associated with industrial activities and deforestation, while the contribution of agricultural production remains underrecognized. Farmers tend to adopt practices that are low-cost, require limited technical knowledge, and are consistent with traditional production systems. The study concludes that awareness alone is not sufficient to foster behavioral adaptation toward climate-resilient agriculture. Strengthening adaptive capacity requires integrated policy measures that enhance extension services, provide financial incentives, and improve access to technological infrastructure. It is imperative that region-specific strategies, particularly for high-altitude areas, be implemented in order to increase resilience against climatic hazards.