When it comes to world food systems ‘pushed to the brink’ by extreme heat, un warns, extreme heat is increasingly jeopardizing global food systems, with farmers struggling to work, livestock under stress, and crop yields declining. The United Nations warns that more than a billion people could be affected as rising temperatures lead to severe heatwaves, threatening food supply chains worldwide. This alarming assessment comes from a detailed report released jointly by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
Understanding World Food Systems ‘pushed To The Brink’ By Extreme Heat, UN Warns
The report indicates that in already hot regions, like much of India, South Asia, and parts of Central and South America, farmers could face conditions that make it impossible to work safely for as many as 250 days a year. This translates to more than two-thirds of the year, leaving agricultural productivity in a precarious state. With extreme heat presenting a serious health hazard, farmers are grappling with the reality that their livelihoods are at risk. Originally reported by The Guardian.
As temperatures rise, livestock are also feeling the strain, with mortality rates increasing significantly. For many common species, heat stress starts when temperatures reach around 25°C. This stress not only reduces the productivity of dairy cows-with declines in both milk yield and the quality of fat and protein-but also impacts pigs and chickens, who are unable to sweat. As temperatures climb, these animals can suffer from serious health issues, including organ failure and digestive tract breakdowns.
Crop Yields in Decline
The report highlights a marked decline in crop yields due to rising temperatures. For instance, maize yields in certain regions have plummeted by approximately 10%, while wheat yields have experienced a similar downturn. The situation is expected to worsen as global temperatures increase beyond 1.5°C above preindustrial levels. At temperatures exceeding 30°C, many agricultural crops face significant damage, including weakened cell walls and the production of harmful toxins.
These adverse conditions not only threaten food security but also raise alarms about the broader implications for global food prices and economies. The cascading effects of simultaneous crop failures could ripple through supply chains, affecting not just farmers but consumers worldwide.
Adapting to a Changing Climate
While the outlook appears grim, experts emphasize that proactive measures can be taken to mitigate the impact of extreme heat on agriculture. Richard Waite, director of agriculture initiatives at the World Resources Institute, asserts that providing farmers with the necessary tools and early warnings could be critical. "Without adaptation, extreme heat will cut crop and livestock yields, forcing more land into agriculture to maintain food production," Waite stated. This cycle threatens to increase greenhouse gas emissions further, exacerbating climate change.
Moreover, Morgan Ody, a small-scale farmer and general coordinator of La Via Campesina, underscored the vulnerability of agricultural workers. He noted, "Farmers, agricultural workers, and small-scale fisherfolk-especially women and elderly people among them-whose livelihoods depend on daily work in fields, rivers, and oceans, are highly vulnerable to extreme heat." Ody calls for comprehensive measures, including compensation for losses due to extreme weather, debt relief, and public investments in adaptive technologies.
Need for Diverse Farming Practices
Experts believe that the modern industrialized food system's reliance on a narrow range of staple crops makes it particularly susceptible to climate shocks. Molly Anderson, a professor of food studies at Middlebury College, emphasized the need to develop a more diverse agricultural ecosystem. She argued that reversing trends in intensive agriculture, which have stripped farms of trees and crop diversity, is essential for resilience against climate impacts. Anderson remarked, "The risk of simultaneous crop failures from extreme heat could ripple through food prices, supply chains, and economies."
Tim Lang, emeritus professor of food policy at the University of London, pointed out that while the most severe impacts may be felt in already hot countries, temperate and developed regions are not immune. "The acceleration of climate uncertainties poses dire challenges for food growers worldwide," he explained. As the climate crisis deepens, it is imperative that both local and global communities take action to safeguard food systems.
In summary, the UN's latest report serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for adaptation and reform within global food systems. As climate change continues to intensify, the focus must shift toward sustainable practices that can withstand the challenges posed by extreme heat and ensure food security for future generations.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.