Climate Change and Other Threats to the Future of Cacao

Chocolate Crisis: Climate Change and Other Threats to the Future of Cacao

by Dale Walters

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	12450 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled
Print length	:	229 pages

FREE

Chocolate is a beloved food enjoyed by people all over the world. But the future of chocolate is threatened by a number of factors, including climate change, pests, and diseases.

Climate Change

Climate change is one of the most serious threats to the future of cacao. Cacao trees are sensitive to changes in temperature and rainfall, and rising temperatures and more extreme weather events are making it difficult for them to thrive.

In 2016, for example, a severe drought in West Africa caused a sharp decline in cacao production. The drought stressed the trees, making them more susceptible to pests and diseases. As a result, the region's cacao产量下降了近一半.

Climate change is also leading to more frequent and intense storms, which can damage cacao trees and disrupt harvesting. In 2017, Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico's cacao industry, causing an estimated $100 million in damage.

Pests and Diseases

Pests and diseases are another major threat to the future of cacao. The most damaging pest is the cacao pod borer, which can destroy up to 90% of a crop. Other pests include mealybugs, aphids, and thrips.

Diseases are also a major problem for cacao trees. The most common disease is black pod rot, which can cause pods to rot and fall from the tree. Other diseases include witches' broom, frosty pod rot, and vascular wilt.

Climate change is making pests and diseases more prevalent and more damaging. Rising temperatures and more humid conditions create an ideal environment for pests and diseases to thrive.

The Future of Cacao

The future of cacao is uncertain. Climate change, pests, and diseases are all major threats to the industry. However, there are some things that can be done to mitigate these threats.

One important step is to develop more climate-resilient cacao varieties. These varieties are more tolerant of heat, drought, and other adverse conditions.

Another important step is to implement good agricultural practices that can help to reduce the risk of pests and diseases. These practices include proper sanitation, crop rotation, and the use of biological controls.

Finally, it is important to support research into new and innovative ways to protect cacao trees. This research could lead to the development of new pesticides, fungicides, and other tools that can help to keep cacao trees healthy and productive.

Chocolate is a delicious and beloved food, but its future is threatened by climate change, pests, and diseases. However, there are steps that can be taken to mitigate these threats and ensure the future of cacao.

Chocolate Crisis: Climate Change and Other Threats to the Future of Cacao

by Dale Walters

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	12450 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled
Print length	:	229 pages

FREE