A professor has warned that climate change could impact Turkey's future crop yields.
What's happening?
Professor Önder Çalmaşur, dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at Atatürk University, told the Daily Sabah that changing weather patterns will heavily impact Turkey's agricultural sector.
Çalmaşur stated that precipitation in the Mediterranean basin has dropped by 20% in the past 25 years. If the planet continues to warm at its current rate, he said that the agricultural sector stands to lose the most.
"Access to water and unfavorable climate conditions directly reduce productivity, causing significant losses," Çalmaşur said.
"Globally, much of the decline in agricultural output is attributed to climate-related factors such as droughts, sudden flooding, untimely rainfall, hail, frost, and storms."
Referencing studies from the Turkish General Directorate of Meteorology, Çalmaşur went on to say that Turkey's greatest yield reductions will likely be in wheat, corn, and sunflower.
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Why is the decline in Turkey's crop yields concerning?
This critical climate issue isn't exclusive to Turkey. As Çalmaşur mentioned, the planet's warming has global impacts.
While the climate has changed over the millennia, scientists agree that the current rate of warming is unprecedented. Pollution from human activity has contributed to rising global temperatures, causing more frequent and intense extreme weather events.
This affects farmers' livelihoods in Turkey and worldwide. For example, farmers in India experienced a 50% drop in grape production after a particularly harsh monsoon season, while dry conditions cost Kenyan farmers crucial crops.
What can be done about reduced crop yields?
Lower crop yields typically lead to higher grocery prices. To handle this growing problem on an individual level, consider reducing your grocery bill by growing your own food or exploring more plant-based dishes.
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