Wed Sep 25 08:06:40 UTC 2024: ## Climate Change Brewing Trouble for Coffee Lovers: Prices Expected to Rise
**Global coffee production is facing a brewing crisis as climate change intensifies extreme weather events in major coffee-producing countries, potentially leading to shortages and price hikes.**
Brazil and Vietnam, the world’s top two coffee producers, are currently battling severe droughts. Brazil’s drought is the worst in over 70 years, exacerbated by wildfires. Vietnam, too, is experiencing unprecedented dry conditions.
Coffee, a sensitive crop, is particularly vulnerable to heat, shifts in seasonality, and extreme weather. The drying process can also be affected, further impacting production.
**Experts warn of potential supply shortages in both countries, driving global coffee prices higher.**
“We are seeing dramatic changes in traditional weather patterns, significantly impacting expected coffee supply next harvest season,” said Sven Anders, a professor and agricultural economist at the University of Alberta.
Adding to the pressure is the growing global demand for coffee, despite recent price stability in Canada. However, over the past four years, the average price for roasted or ground coffee has increased by 23.2%.
Futures for coffee, indicating future prices, are on the rise, suggesting that price hikes are imminent.
**While consumers may not feel the immediate impact, a near-term price shock is expected, particularly from smaller coffee companies.**
“This is not going to go away,” said Anders, predicting long-term price increases across the board.
**To mitigate climate change’s impact, efforts are underway to breed more hardy coffee trees resistant to “coffee rust”, a fungus thriving in hotter weather.**
Diversifying crops and planting shade trees are also strategies to increase resilience.
However, the crisis extends beyond the crop. Many small, family-based coffee farmers are abandoning the industry due to its volatility.
Experts emphasize the need for greater support for coffee farmers to adapt to changing climate conditions and weather shocks.
**”We need to do more to support coffee farmers so they can adapt to the changing climate and be less vulnerable,” said Elizabeth Shapiro-Garza, an associate professor at Duke University.**
This, in turn, will help address price volatility, reduce supply shortages, and ensure farmers can continue their livelihoods.
**As climate change continues to disrupt the world’s coffee production, consumers can expect to see a rise in the price of their morning brew.**
First Piper 