UN agencies warn that rising global temperatures are damaging crops and food systems, putting over a billion people at risk. This can lead to malnutrition and health crises as food supply becomes unstable.
Read the article to know why extreme heat is pushing global agrifood systems to the brink.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “Inadequate” mean? “The FAO and WMO said piecemeal responses were inadequate and called for better risk governance and early-warning weather systems to help farmers and fishers take preventive action.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “Curb” mean? “But the report said adaptation alone is not enough, arguing the only lasting solution to the growing threat of extreme heat is ambitious, coordinated action to curb climate change.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “Decimate” mean? “It decimated the olive and citrus harvest.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- How does extreme heat affect food production and supply?
- What health problems can be caused by rising temperatures?
- Which countries or communities do you think are most vulnerable to extreme heat? Why?
- How might climate change impact food prices and availability in the future?
- What actions can governments and individuals take to reduce the effects of extreme heat?