Priority measures of adaptation to climate change in the viticulture sector in Serbia

Abstract

Viticulture production, like the entire agriculture, is subject to climate changes related to a significant increase in air temperature. High air temperatures during the ripening period negatively affect the yield and quality of grapes. Apart from the increase in air temperature, grape production is also affected by rainfall and the frequency of extreme events. Climate projections for the future predict a further increase in air temperature and a change in the most important viticultural indices. The analysis shows that there has been a change in the climate category according to WI and HI values, and in some areas also CI. The Drought Index (DI) does not show significant changes in the first two periods (2021- 2040; 2041-2060), in contrast to the increased frequency of droughts and the extension of the duration of the dry period during the year. Since the most significant risks in viticulture come from high temperatures during the grape ripening period and from hail and stormy weather during the growing season, appropriate adaptation measures are needed.