Climate change is adversely affecting cocoa cultivation, resulting in higher chocolate prices and potential shortages. Research shows growing temperatures hinder cacao tree growth, exacerbating challenges for farmers. Consequences include a significant price increase in cocoa globally, with serious implications for the livelihoods of farmers reliant on cocoa production.
According to research from Climate Central, climate change negatively impacts cocoa production, making chocolate more expensive and potentially less available in the future. Chocolate is a beloved treat in the UK; however, changing temperatures are creating difficulties for cocoa farmers and threatening their livelihoods. The report emphasizes the increasing challenges faced by farmers due to climate-related temperature changes.
The research conducted by Climate Central analyzed temperature data from major cocoa-producing countries over a decade. They discovered that high temperatures hinder the growth of cacao trees, as they cannot thrive in conditions exceeding 32 degrees Celsius. Consequently, farmers experience a decrease in both harvest quantity and quality, affecting chocolate supply.
A separate report from UK charity Christian Aid corroborates these findings, illustrating the adverse effects of rising global temperatures on cocoa crops worldwide. The report highlights that excessive heat has increased, contributing to diminishing cacao yields, particularly during the crucial growing season from October to March.
In addition to temperature concerns, the overall cocoa market has faced significant price surges, with global cocoa prices rising by 136% between July 2022 and February 2024. This increase is attributed not only to heat-related harvest reductions but also to additional factors like increased rainfall and pest infestations, which complicate cultivation efforts.
Christian Aid has raised awareness of the struggles faced by cocoa farmers, pointing out that the rising costs directly harm those who rely on cocoa farming for their livelihood. As Osai Ojigho stated, “Growing cocoa is a vital livelihood for many of the poorest people around the world and human-caused climate change is putting that under serious threat.”
This comprehensive understanding of the impact of climate change on cocoa production is paramount, as it can help inform future agricultural practices and policies aimed at safeguarding the availability of chocolate and the well-being of farmers.
In summary, climate change poses a significant threat to cocoa production, making chocolate more costly and less accessible in the future. Rising temperatures affect the growth of cacao trees, leading to decreasing yields and higher prices. Initiatives supporting cocoa farmers are crucial, as they face severe challenges due to changing climates, ensuring their livelihoods are protected in these uncertain times.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
