Climate change is poses an increased threat to banana production, with farmers reporting extreme weather destroying crops, according to new reports.
An analysis released Monday by the International Development Charity Christian Aid reveals that rising temperatures and climate-related pests are putting the future of bananas at risk.
The report paints a harsh picture of popular fruits and discovers that climate change can destroy banana-growing areas. Almost two-thirds of the most suitable regions for banana cultivation in Latin America and the Caribbean could be lost by 2080. The region is currently responsible for around 80% of the world’s banana exports, highlighting the possibility of significant destruction into the market.
Bananas grow in temperatures ranging from 15 to 35°C, but are also very sensitive to water shortages. In other words, increasingly extreme weather is affecting the plants’ photosynthetic capabilities.
Diseases such as the Fusarium Tropical Race 4 have also emerged as a growing threat in recent years, causing losses across farms across Latin America.
Christian Aid cites local farmers who say their farms are “dying,” which affects their income.
Aurelia Pop Xo (53), a Guatemalan banana grower, said: “Climate change is killing our crops.
“This means we don’t have any income because we can’t sell anything. What’s going on is that my plantation is dead.
“In the past, there was a prediction that this would happen in the future, but it came early because we are not caring for our homeland, our ecosystem, which is very worrying to our children, especially our grandchildren.”
In light of the findings, Christian aid is urging developed countries to urgently reduce carbon emissions and stop the growing impact of climate change.
They also call for international climate funding to help banana growers and farming communities adapt to changing climates.
“We are pleased to announce that we are a great opportunity to see the government and the company is a great place to go,” said Osai Ojoycho, director of Christian Aid’s policy and campaign.
“The lives and livelihoods of those who did nothing to cause the climate crisis are already under threat.”
Ojigho urged the country to use the deadline for this year’s new UN Climate Action Plan as an opportunity to accelerate its transition from fossil fuels and ensure that climate funds will “reach people in hopeless need.”
Elsewhere, consumers and businesses are being encouraged to choose bananas that are certified as fair trade.
“We’re looking forward to seeing you in a way that’s a great opportunity to help you,” said Anna Pierides, senior sustainable sourcing manager at the Fair Trade Foundation.
“Fairtrade is committed to raising income, living standards and resilience for banana producers, helping them to deal with changing climates and continue to farm.
“One way we can support this is by bringing together buyers through the shared impact initiative to ensure a long-term sourcing commitment, greater transparency and more opportunities for banana growers to sell more on fair trade terms.”
“We’re working with Banana Links across the banana supply chain,” said Holly Woodward Davy, project coordinator for Banana Link, which works throughout the banana supply chain.
“The government must continue to take decisive action to ban the most toxic chemicals while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and investing in transitioning to a fair, stable and healthy food system.”
