A recent report highlights that climate change negatively impacts chocolate production by making cocoa cultivation more difficult. Rising temperatures have increased cocoa prices and threaten the livelihoods of farmers reliant on cocoa production. Significant heat stress on cacao trees has been documented in major cocoa-producing countries, leading to a potential shortage of chocolate.
Recent research indicates that climate change is adversely affecting the production of chocolate, a widely enjoyed delicacy in the UK. A study conducted by the US-based Climate Central has revealed that rising temperatures are making it increasingly difficult to cultivate cocoa, the primary ingredient in chocolate, resulting in higher prices and potential shortages in the future.
The report from Climate Central highlighted significant findings regarding the temperature fluctuations in major cocoa-producing nations over the past decade. It was discovered that excessive heat has rendered it too warm to grow cacao trees for an extended period, compromising both the quality and quantity of cocoa beans.
Additionally, Christian Aid, a UK charity, has raised concerns regarding the challenges faced by cocoa farmers due to these rising temperatures. The organization has noted a troubling trend where climate change disrupts the livelihoods of many farmers, particularly those from impoverished communities who rely on cocoa production.
The growth of cacao, the source of cocoa beans, is severely hindered when temperatures exceed 32 degrees Celsius (89.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Analysis of climate data revealed that in key areas such as Ivory Coast and Ghana, climate change has contributed to sustained periods of extreme heat, adversely impacting the main growing season.
Furthermore, the research indicated that cocoa prices surged by 136% between July 2022 and February 2024, driven in part by reduced crop yields due to climate change. Alongside higher temperatures, factors such as increased rainfall and pest infestations have compounded the difficulties faced by cocoa farmers.
In summary, climate change poses significant challenges to both chocolate production and the cocoa farmers who contribute to it. Rising temperatures have led to reduced harvests, resulting in increased cocoa prices and jeopardizing the livelihoods of many individuals in cocoa-dependent communities. There is an urgent need for initiatives targeting climate change mitigation to protect both cocoa cultivation and the well-being of farmers involved in this essential industry.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
