IMPACT ON GLOBAL FOOD SUPPLY

Increased climate change temperatures can have both positive and negative effects on agriculture. While some crops may benefit from earlier springs and longer warm seasons, other crops may face challenges from severe warming, floods, and drought, leading to reduced yields. It’s important to consider the potential benefits in conjunction with the challenges posed by climate change. Crops like grain are expected to increase up to 11% while corn is projected to decrease by 17%. 

The impact of climate change on global food supply, in the context of a growing population projected to reach 9.5 billion by 2050, is a serious concern. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highlights the potential reduction in yields of major cereal crops such as wheat, rice, and maize, leading to decreased food availability and increased prices.

In addition, the Nature article by Rosenzweig and Parry emphasizes the disparity between developed and developing countries in bearing the impacts, with limited adaptive measures. The urgency of proactive measures to address the serious implications of climate change on the global food supply is underscored by these reports. As population grows, it is imperative to consider the potential severity of climate change’s impact on food availability, affordability, and malnutrition risk.

References: 

– United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Climate Change Impacts 

– Rosenzweig, C., & Parry, M. L. (1994). Potential impact of climate change on world food supply. Nature, 367(6465), 133-138