Climate Change Poses Threat to Global Chocolate Production

Researchers highlight that climate change is causing crop-withering temperatures in West Africa, severely affecting cacao production. This has resulted in record-high global chocolate prices as farmers struggle with excessive heat, diseases, and irregular rainfall patterns. Ivory Coast and Ghana, the leading cacao producers, are facing an existential threat to their crops, prompting urgent attention to sustainable practices.

Climate change is significantly impacting the cacao production in West African countries, primarily affecting the livelihoods of farmers in regions such as Ivory Coast and Ghana, noted experts. Increased temperatures and altered rainfall patterns are leading to a decline in both the quality and quantity of cacao harvests. Research indicates that extreme heat is becoming more prevalent, adding approximately three weeks of excessive heat to the growing season, which has detrimental effects on crop yields.

Data shows that last year’s record temperatures exceeded 32 degrees Celsius on 42 different days in West Africa. The combination of heat, disease, and erratic weather is causing challenging conditions for local farmers who depend on the cacao crop for their income. Consequently, global production is decreasing, and the prices of chocolate products are climbing steeply due to these failed harvests and increasing costs of cocoa.

Experts warn that the climate crisis poses an “existential threat” to cacao crops, projecting that if trends continue, the chocolate industry’s future may be severely compromised. The rising global chocolate prices are a reflection of these agricultural challenges and a direct result of climate-induced crop failures. Immediate actions are necessary to mitigate these effects and support sustainable cacao farming practices in the region.

In conclusion, the threat that climate change poses to cacao production in West Africa is becoming increasingly severe, with record-breaking temperatures and altered weather patterns leading to decreased yields and higher chocolate prices. As experts label this situation an existential threat, it is imperative that collective efforts be made to address the challenges facing cacao farmers and the industry as a whole.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com