Climate Change Puts Latin America's Banana Industry at Risk
Bananas are more than just a fruit in Latin America—they are a vital economic engine. But climate change is threatening the very foundation of this industry.
According to a recent scientific study, rising global temperatures could render up to 60% of currently suitable banana-growing areas in Latin America and the Caribbean unproductive. These regions rely heavily on banana exports for economic stability, particularly countries like Ecuador, Colombia, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic.
The study highlights that climate change is altering rainfall patterns and increasing the frequency of droughts, affecting banana yields and pushing farming into less suitable zones. This could disrupt global supply chains, increase prices, and impact millions of farmers whose livelihoods depend on banana cultivation.
Experts urge that adaptive measures must be taken immediately, including the development of heat- and drought-resistant banana varieties, better water management, and sustainable farming practices. Without intervention, the region could face a significant decline in both agricultural productivity and economic stability.
📊 Key Facts:
🍌 Bananas are a top export in several Latin American nations.
🌡️ 60% of suitable growing areas are under threat from warming temperatures.
🚨 Economic consequences could ripple through international markets.
🔗 Source:
Science Advances (Study published June 2025)
Reports from the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) and FAO
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