The Climate Crisis Will Lead Great Britain to an Impending Food Shortage
The climate crisis could lead the United Kingdom to face imminent food shortages, according to a study by British scientists, as reported by Science Alert.
The results of a new study conducted by British scientists indicate that food shortages caused by extreme weather events could potentially result in civil unrest within the next 50 years. A primary factor contributing to such unrest will be the shortage of essential carbohydrates, such as wheat, bread, pasta, and cereals.
The study relied on input from 58 leading experts in the field of food, representing scientific communities, policymakers, charitable organizations, and businesses. These experts assessed the likelihood of civil disturbances leading to injuries for over 30,000 individuals.
"Over 40% of these experts said they considered such a scenario 'possible' or 'more likely than not' within the next decade. Over a 50-year span, almost 80% of experts viewed civil unrest as either 'possible', 'more likely', or 'very likely,'" the statement reads.
The rise in food prices can lead to social unrest. Crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have exposed the world's vulnerability to food shortages. Moreover, extreme weather conditions, climate change, and crop failures can contribute to shortages.
As an example, experts cite the events of 2007 when global grain production decreased by 8% due to droughts, floods, and heatwaves in Australia, India, and the United States. Combined with low global grain reserves, financial speculation, and high fertilizer prices, these events led to a doubling of grain prices. The crisis triggered food riots in over 30 countries.
Scientists believe that addressing food poverty is crucial to reducing the risk of food shortages by ensuring access to food for all. Additionally, strengthening the resilience of the food system through soil restoration, improving working conditions in agriculture, and implementing sustainable farming practices is essential. Active efforts to combat climate change are also vital to prevent future crop failures and food distribution problems.
As reported by The Gaze, the UK Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly, called on Russian President Putin to immediately reopen the Black Sea for navigation and return to the "grain deal."
"Let's be frank - Russia's actions are taking food out of the mouths of the poorest people in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America," Cleverly stated.