The Fieldston Science Bulletin

By: Zena Imafidon

Chocolate is one of the world’s most beloved treats, enjoyed by millions daily. From hot cocoa to candy bars, chocolate is essential to everyday life. However, the future of chocolate is in jeopardy. Climate change significantly affects cocoa production, making it harder for farmers to grow cocoa beans. High temperatures, the spread of plant diseases, and changing rainfall patterns are making it more difficult to grow cocoa trees.

One of the biggest threats to cocoa farming is rising temperatures. Cocoa trees are highly sensitive to heat, and small temperature changes can reduce the ability to produce high-quality cocoa beans. Many cocoa-growing regions, like West Africa, are experiencing long droughts, which are drying out trees and reducing the amount of beans harvested. 

Climate change is also fueling the spread of pests and diseases that attack cocoa plants. Warmer temperatures and increased humidity create the perfect environment for different types of fungi. Additionally, insects such as cocoa mirids, which feed on cocoa pods, are becoming more widespread due to changing climate conditions. Many farmers lack the resources to fight these threats, leading to further losses in cocoa production. 

The impact of climate change on cocoa farming extends beyond the fields. Cocoa farming supports millions of people, particularly in West Africa, where about 60% of the world’s cocoa is produced. When cocoa yields decrease, the farmers struggle financially. Additionally, as cocoa becomes scarcer, the cost of chocolate products rises, affecting businesses and consumers worldwide.

The future of chocolate depends on how we address climate change. As cocoa farmers struggle with rising temperatures, unpredictable weather, and plant diseases, the entire chocolate industry faces uncertainty. Without action, chocolate could become a luxury rather than an everyday treat. However, by investing in sustainable farming practices, supporting cocoa farmers, and taking climate change seriously, we can help secure the future of chocolate for generations to come. The fate of this sweet treat is in our hands. 

Sources:

https://unctad.org/news/chocolate-price-hikes-bittersweet-reason-care-about-climate-change

https://www.npr.org/2024/05/15/1198909986/chocolate-cocoa-prices-shortage-climate-change

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