A study by Aalto University reveals that climate change could threaten up to a third of global food production, especially in low-latitude regions. Key staple crops, including rice and maize, may see reduced land availability, leading to vulnerabilities in food security. The need for adaptation and mitigation strategies is critical to combat these challenges.
A recent study conducted by researchers from Aalto University in Finland published in Nature Food reveals that climate change could threaten a considerable portion of global food production, potentially affecting up to one-third of outputs. The analysis specifically examines the impacts of rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increased aridity on 30 key food crops worldwide.
The research indicates that rising global temperatures may significantly diminish the land available for staple crops such as rice, maize, wheat, potatoes, and soybeans, which are essential for over two-thirds of the world’s food energy. Low-latitude regions are predicted to suffer the most severe consequences, with up to half of their crop production at risk, leading to a reduction in crop diversity.
Sara Heikonen, the lead researcher, highlighted that the loss of crop diversity would drastically decrease the variety of food available, thereby reducing food security and complicating access to essential calories and proteins. Particular crops like tropical root varieties, notably yam, are especially vulnerable in sub-Saharan Africa, where nearly 75% of current production could be jeopardized if global warming surpasses 3°C.
In contrast, mid- and high-latitude regions may maintain productive agricultural land and even enhance crop diversity, as conditions might allow for new crops like pears to flourish. However, senior author Matti Kummu warns that favorable climate conditions could also introduce new pests and extreme weather events that may disrupt agricultural output.
Heikonen emphasizes the necessity of both mitigating the impacts of climate change and adapting agricultural practices to secure future food systems. She points out that despite the most significant effects occurring in equatorial areas, globalized food systems would ensure that all regions would feel the repercussions, necessitating a collaborative approach to address these pressing challenges.
In summary, the study underscores the severe risks that climate change poses to global food production, particularly in low-latitude areas. The loss of crop diversity threatens food security, especially for vulnerable populations in regions like sub-Saharan Africa. While mid- and high-latitude areas may experience some benefits, the emergence of new challenges such as pests necessitates a comprehensive approach to food system resilience through climate mitigation and adaptation.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
