The International Center for Tropical Agriculture found that a predicted combination of changing temperature and rainfall patterns could dramatically affect West Africa, which supplies about two-thirds of the world's cocoa. If the changes in climate occur, the amount of land that works well for growing chocolate will dramatically decrease from the years 2030 to 2050, which would not only drive chocolate prices up into the luxury goods range but would also have a negative impact on farmers in Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, where cocoa production represents about 7.5 and 3.4 percent of those countries' gross domestic products, respectively.
More facts about chocolate:
- Three main varieties of cacao beans are used to make chocolate: forastero, criollo and trinitario. The notoriously difficult to grow criollo is the rarest type, making up only about 5 percent of all cacao beans grown. Forastero beans are the most commonly grown.
- Chocolate has been part of United States military rations since 1937. Most varieties of military chocolate, which are designed to withstand temperatures as hot as 140° Fahrenheit (about 60° Celsius), are made by the Hershey company.
- As of the late 2000s, it cost about $3,000 US Dollars per 2,204.6 pounds (1 tonne) of chocolate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does climate change threaten the chocolate industry?
Climate change poses a significant threat to the chocolate industry by impacting the delicate ecosystems where cacao trees thrive. Rising temperatures and altered rainfall patterns can lead to droughts or excessive moisture, both of which can harm cacao production. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, West Africa, which produces over 70% of the world's cocoa, is particularly vulnerable to these changes.
What specific climate factors affect cacao tree cultivation?
Cacao trees require specific conditions to flourish, including high humidity, abundant rain, and stable warm temperatures. They are typically grown within 20 degrees north and south of the Equator. Climate factors such as temperature increases, unpredictable rainfall, and extreme weather events can disrupt these conditions, leading to reduced yields and poorer quality cocoa, as reported by the International Cocoa Organization.
Can cacao trees adapt to changing climates?
Cacao trees have limited adaptability to rapidly changing climates. They are slow-growing and can take up to five years to produce their first pods. Efforts are underway to breed more resilient cacao varieties, but these solutions take time to develop and implement. Meanwhile, existing trees may not cope well with the pace of climate change, as noted by the World Cocoa Foundation.
What are the economic implications of climate change on cocoa-producing countries?
The economic implications are profound for cocoa-producing countries, many of which rely heavily on cocoa as a primary export commodity. Climate-induced declines in production can lead to loss of income for farmers and laborers, potentially exacerbating poverty and social issues. The World Bank has highlighted that such economic stress can ripple through the entire supply chain, affecting local and global markets.
How might chocolate consumers be affected by climate change?
Chocolate consumers may face higher prices and decreased availability of chocolate products as climate change impacts cacao production. The quality of chocolate could also suffer if producers resort to using lower-grade cocoa due to shortages of premium beans. Research from the International Center for Tropical Agriculture suggests that without intervention, chocolate could become a luxury item, less accessible to the average consumer.
What actions are being taken to mitigate climate change effects on the chocolate industry?
Various stakeholders in the chocolate industry are taking action to mitigate climate change effects. These include investing in sustainable farming practices, reforestation, and developing heat-resistant cacao varieties. Organizations like the Rainforest Alliance are working with farmers to improve land management and resilience. Additionally, major chocolate companies have committed to sourcing sustainably produced cocoa to reduce environmental impact.
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Discussion Comments
Great article with interesting facts. Also, I didn't know that there was chocolate made to withstand extremely high temperatures. If so, why aren't they sold in stores?
@Chmander - I agree with you. People usually buy chocolate around the Holidays, when the weather is nice and cool. However, this article is talking about the climate change in a sense that it affects the cacao beans, which are used to make chocolate. It's harder to produce chocolate when the weather patterns are all over the place, especially in this day and age.
Just my opinion, but I thought climate change could also affect the chocolate industry in the sense that chocolate melts very easily. After all, do people even eat it in the hot summer weather? Some do, but I doubt it's a lot of people. It's way too messy, and too much of a hassle. In the winter, it's pretty much the opposite.
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