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Heatwaves Threaten Global Food Supply: UN Warns
22 Apr
Summary
- Extreme heat makes farming impossible for up to 250 days yearly in hot regions.
- Livestock mortality rates and crop yields are falling due to heat stress.
- UN report highlights the urgent need for adaptation in food systems.
The United Nations has issued a dire warning about extreme heatwaves pushing global food systems to the brink. Farmers in regions like India, sub-Saharan Africa, and Central and South America may find it impossible to work outdoors for as many as 250 days each year due to severe heat. This is already causing livestock to experience increased mortality rates and significant reductions in crop yields, threatening over a billion livelihoods.
Experts highlight that agricultural yields begin to decline above 30C for most crops, with maize and wheat already seeing notable decreases. Ocean heatwaves are also depleting dissolved oxygen, leading to fish population decline. The UN report emphasizes the importance of early warning systems for farmers, utilizing weather forecasts and mobile technology.
Adaptation is crucial to prevent a vicious cycle where increased land use for agriculture exacerbates emissions, worsening climate impacts. Shifting to more nature-friendly farming and diversifying food systems are presented as vital long-term solutions. The report also calls for worker safety regulations, compensation for losses, and public investment in adaptive measures.
