UN Warns of Extreme Heat Threatening Global Food Systems
World food systems ‘pushed to the brink’ by extreme heat, UN warns
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
The United Nations has issued a stark warning that extreme heat is jeopardizing global food systems, affecting farmers, livestock, and crop yields. With over a billion lives at stake, regions like India and sub-Saharan Africa are particularly vulnerable, facing severe heatwaves that disrupt agricultural productivity.
- 01Extreme heat is threatening food systems globally, impacting farmers and livestock.
- 02Regions like India and sub-Saharan Africa could see farmers unable to work safely for up to 250 days a year.
- 03Crop yields, including maize and wheat, are already declining due to rising temperatures.
- 04Experts emphasize the need for adaptive measures and diverse food systems to mitigate risks.
- 05The effects of climate change on agriculture will impact food prices and supply chains worldwide.
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A recent report by the United Nations warns that extreme heat is severely impacting global food systems, threatening the livelihoods of over 1 billion people. Farmers in regions such as India and sub-Saharan Africa may be unable to work safely for up to 250 days each year due to rising temperatures. Livestock are facing increased mortality rates, and crop yields are declining, with maize yields dropping by approximately 10% and wheat yields projected to follow suit as temperatures rise above 1.5C above preindustrial levels. The report highlights the urgent need for better warning systems for farmers and calls for a shift towards more sustainable agricultural practices. Experts stress that without adaptation, extreme heat will exacerbate food production challenges and increase greenhouse gas emissions. The report also emphasizes that the impacts of climate change will not be confined to hot regions, affecting food supply chains and economies worldwide.
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The extreme heat is likely to lead to reduced agricultural productivity, which could increase food prices and affect food supply chains globally. Farmers, especially in vulnerable regions, may face significant economic losses.
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