A recent report reveals that climate change is severely affecting the cocoa industry, with cocoa prices spiking by 400% in recent years due to extreme weather conditions in West Africa. Christian Aid warns of the risks to chocolate production and farmers’ livelihoods, as rising temperatures and erratic rainfall continue to diminish cocoa harvests, leading to increased costs globally.
In a recent report ahead of Valentine’s Day, the chocolate industry faces severe challenges due to climate change, with cocoa prices soaring by 400% in recent years as a result of extreme weather conditions. This alarming trend has been linked to a 2023 heatwave in West Africa, which has become ten times more likely due to human-caused climate change. Cocoa-producing regions, particularly in Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Cameroon, and Nigeria, have seen significant increases in temperatures that are detrimental to cocoa cultivation.
Christian Aid has issued a warning highlighting the risks to chocolate production and the livelihoods depending on it. The report reveals that climate change has caused detrimental effects on cocoa harvests, with rising temperatures and erratic rainfall leading to reduced cocoa availability. Consequently, cocoa prices have escalated globally, affecting consumers and chocolate manufacturers alike. Furthermore, the size of chocolate products is shrinking in response to the increasing costs.
The situation escalated in 2023 due to unexpected heavy rainfall during the dry season in Ghana, resulting in severe crop losses, while 2024 experienced drought that immensely impacted local farmers. Citing these challenges, Osai Ojigho of Christian Aid emphasized the urgent need for climate action and financial assistance for cocoa farmers to adapt to these changes. The ongoing consequences are hitting not only cocoa growers but also chocolate makers who rely on stable cocoa supplies.
Small manufacturers like Kernow Chocolate report significant struggles as market prices rise due to low supply and high demand. Andy Soden indicated that many businesses in chocolate production have felt the adverse effects of climate changes and weather variability on harvest cycles. The rising cocoa prices are threatening their sustainability, as options to mitigate these effects are limited for smaller producers. Larger companies may make adjustments, but smaller ones face challenges in maintaining production and pricing.
Fairtrade Foundation’s Alexander Carnwath articulated that achieving environmental sustainability in the cocoa supply chain hinges on the social and economic wellbeing of cocoa producers. The need for fair trade practices and higher prices is critical for farmers, enabling them to engage in sustainable agricultural practices while ensuring a livable income. Collaborative efforts among businesses and government are essential to enhance the resilience of cocoa production.
Cocoa growers such as Amelia from Guatemala have expressed the harsh realities of climate change, reporting failing crops and food insecurity. Aurelia, another Guatemalan farmer, lamented the premature decline in her cocoa and banana crops, attributing it to climate negligence. The testimony of these growers reflects a broader concern for future generations and the urgent need to address the environmental challenges they face.
Whitakers Chocolates highlighted their commitment to sustainable practices, emphasizing the importance of supporting Fairtrade cocoa to benefit farmers and secure the future of chocolate. The rising market prices over the last two years correlate directly with climate change impacts on cocoa production, as two primary producers, Ivory Coast and Ghana, grapple with shared adversities in weather patterns. Immediate and resolute action on climate change is required to safeguard the livelihoods of cocoa farmers and the chocolate industry.
In summary, the chocolate industry is grappling with significant challenges posed by climate change, which has led to substantial increases in cocoa prices and dwindling harvests. The crisis not only threatens the supply chain but also jeopardizes the livelihoods of cocoa producers, especially in major growing regions like West Africa. Urgent actions, including emission cuts and targeted climate finance for farmers, are essential to secure the future of cocoa cultivation and the chocolate market. The testimonies from various stakeholders, including farmers and chocolate makers, underscore the need for collaborative efforts to forge an equitable and sustainable path forward for both the industry and the community it serves.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
