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Climate Crisis Supercharges Crop Pests, Threatening Food Supply
20 Dec
Summary
- Crop pest damage is rising due to climate change.
- Key crops like wheat, rice, and maize face significant losses.
- Action needed to diversify crops and boost natural predators.
The escalating climate crisis is intensifying the threat of crop pests, imperiling the world's food supply. An analysis reveals that rising global temperatures enable pests to thrive, reproduce faster, and expand their reach, leading to projected increases in crop losses.
Key global crops such as wheat, rice, and maize are particularly vulnerable, with expected losses to pests rising by approximately 46%, 19%, and 31% respectively if global heating reaches 2C. This surge is attributed to warmer winters, extended growing seasons, and pests invading previously cooler regions.
Scientists warn that current agricultural systems, often relying on monocultures and heavy pesticide use, are becoming increasingly precarious. They advocate for diversifying crops, integrating farming practices, and restoring natural habitats to support pest predators, highlighting the urgent need for resilient food systems.
