The beloved British cup of tea faces a tough future as climate change affects the way tea is grown. A new report by Christian Aid highlights that rising temperatures and unpredictable weather are changing the flavor profile of tea in countries like Kenya, India, and Sri Lanka.
The key to good tea lies in a mix of compounds—like catechins, amino acids, and polyphenols—that create the flavor and aroma we cherish. Unfortunately, warmer weather tends to increase bitter compounds while reducing the sweetness that balances the taste. This shift won’t happen overnight, but rather as a slow change, leading to less reliable flavors in our tea.
Another concern is extreme weather, which stresses tea plants and alters their growth. Higher temperatures are also expected to increase pest populations, causing further challenges for farmers. Dr. Neha Mittal, a climate scientist, emphasizes that maintaining consistent flavor is becoming increasingly tough for tea brands as climate conditions evolve.
Farmers are already feeling the impact. Reuben Korir, a small-scale tea grower in Kenya, shares that unpredictable weather results in smaller leaves and lesser quality tea. “The taste isn’t as good as it used to be,” he notes, highlighting the frustration of unreliable harvests and income.
The effects extend beyond taste. Climate events like droughts and floods disrupt harvests and push prices higher. Geopolitical tensions and rising energy costs add more strain, creating a “perfect storm” for the tea market. With the UK consuming around 100 million cups of tea daily—half of which comes from Kenya—these changes leave British consumers vulnerable to fluctuations in quality and price.
Claire Nasike Akello, a climate expert at Christian Aid, warns that tea may become more bitter and less predictable. “The biggest impacts will hit those who grow and process tea,” she explains. Many farmers already face rising costs and erratic harvests, amplifying existing inequalities in the tea industry. Those least responsible for climate change are often hit the hardest.
Investing in fair pricing and support for farmers could help safeguard the future of tea. It’s essential to improve conditions for these workers while also focusing on sustainable farming practices.
The journey of tea from the fields to our mugs is changing, making it vital to pay attention not just to our cups but to the farmers behind our favorite drink.
For more on the impact of climate change on agriculture, you can check resources from Christian Aid and the Met Office.
