Composting: A climate-smart and sustainable agriculture solution
Soil degradation and declining fertility threaten smallholder farming in Ghana’s Upper West Region (UWR). Composting has been introduced as an affordable and sustainable farming practice.
Abstract
The learning brief highlights composting as a climate-smart and sustainable solution to soil degradation and declining fertility among smallholder farmers, especially in Ghana’s Upper West Region.
The initiative promoted composting as a sustainable alternative to costly inorganic fertilisers. Composting transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich fertiliser, improving soil structure, enhancing crop productivity, and strengthening climate resilience. The project trained over 300 farmers, with strong inclusion of women and youth, and encouraged practical, community-based adoption.
Results showed reduced farming costs, improved yields, better waste management, and enhanced household nutrition, particularly through women-led backyard gardens.
Despite challenges such as labour demands and material availability, farmers have been gradually adapting through local innovations and knowledge sharing. Overall, composting demonstrates significant cross-sectoral benefits and offers a scalable pathway to sustainable agriculture, food security, and climate resilience in vulnerable farming communities.
The project was implemented by SNV with funding from the European Union - Resilience Against Climate Change (EU-REACH) project.