Why Farmers Around the Globe Are Struggling to Adapt to Climate Change: Urgent Challenges Ahead

Rising temperatures around the world are set to impact our food supply in a big way. According to research, for every degree Celsius our planet warms, we could lose around 121 kilocalories of food per person each day by the end of the century. That’s like skipping breakfast for everyone.

Researchers at the University of Illinois, led by Andrew Hultgren, examined data from important crops like corn, wheat, and rice. Their study included detailed weather information from 54 countries. They wanted to see how different crops would react to climate changes and how farmers might adapt.

What they found is concerning. Most crops, except rice—which actually benefits from warmer nights—will see significant yield drops. For instance, corn yields could decrease by as much as 28% if we don’t tackle greenhouse gas emissions. Even with adaptations like switching to different crop varieties or boosting irrigation, the losses will still be substantial.

Hultgren points out that these adaptations can only lessen the impact to a certain extent. Without them, losses could be even worse, particularly if we move toward higher warming scenarios. “It raises questions about the future of the corn belt in the U.S.,” he said.

Interestingly, the most significant losses aren’t expected in poorer countries but rather in wealthier agricultural regions like the U.S. Midwest and parts of Europe. Wolfram Schlenker from Harvard noted that while poorer nations might struggle, wealthier regions like these have not proven to be better adapted to extreme weather changes.

Michael Roberts from the University of Hawai’i echoes these concerns, suggesting there’s much uncertainty about our food future. He emphasizes that while we hope for the best, there’s a real risk of severe food shortages, potentially leading to mass starvation.

In this complicated global food system, the stakes are high. With changing climates, understanding and adapting our farming practices will be crucial for the future of food security.

For further insights, check out the detailed findings in the research published by New Scientist.

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climate change,economics,extreme weather