According to a new study by Christian Aid entitled "Getting Smashed: The Climate Danger Facing Avocados" avocados are at risk of becoming scarce due to climate change. The latest report from Christian Aid expresses concern about meeting this challenge, predicting major declines in avocado production.
Main findings of the study
- Major producing regions, including Burundi, Chile, Peru, Spain, South Africa and Mexico, report reduced productivity due to unstable weather conditions.
- Growing avocados requires a lot of water, making them more difficult to grow in hot, dry conditions.
Current problems and predictions for the future
- It is predicted that avocado growing areas will shrink by 14% to 41% by 2050, depending on the reduction of global emissions.
- Mexico, as the world's largest producer, will experience a decrease in growing area of 31% to 43% depending on increased temperatures.
Market and industry impacts
Rumors of avocado shortages are spreading, highlighting the challenges that climate change poses to the global food market. Farmers, like Jolis Bigirimana from Burundi, are experiencing worsening farming conditions and rising costs of irrigating their crops.
Farmers in regions such as Peru and Chile are facing water access challenges, an issue highlighted by Chloe Sutcliffe, UK Horticultural Society representative. Meanwhile, organizations such as Christian Aid are calling for commitment and financial support to combat climate change and help affected farming communities in these affected areas.
Mariana Paoli from Christian Aid urged the need for urgent action to help farmers adapt to different climate conditions and provide support for them. The call for government commitment, aid to developing countries and financial support for farming communities is imperative to ensure future food security.
