Decrease in pollinators could result in significant losses for farmers

A recent study has revealed a significant decline in pollinating insects due to climate change and changes in land use, posing a major threat to tropical crops such as mango, watermelon, coffee, and cocoa.

Climate Change threatens global crop Production

The research indicates that the greatest threat in terms of total production is to China, India, Indonesia, Brazil, and the Philippines. Among the crops, cocoa, especially in Africa, is most at risk.

The study conducted by researchers from University College London and the Natural History Museum was published in the international journal Science Advances on October 12, 2023.

The researchers collected data related to crops and pests from 1,507 areas globally and identified 3,080 species of pollinating insects.

The research confirmed that the combined effects of climate change and agricultural activities have led to a significant decline in the number and diversity of pollinating insects. This can affect crop yield with reasons for the decline in insects attributed to habitat destruction, thoughtless changes in land use, and excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides.

Dr. Joe Millard, lead researcher associated with the study and the UCL Center for Biodiversity and Environment, stated that tropical areas are at the highest risk of crop damage due to losing pollinators. This is mainly due to climate change and changes in land use. Although this problem is on a local scale in some specific regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, northern parts of South America, and South-East Asia, it is affecting the entire world because of the crops we trade which need pollinators.

The study highlights the need for local awareness and government action plans at various levels to address this issue effectively. It serves as a wake-up call for farmers and nature conservationists about the need for caution regarding these crops.

Pollinator diversity

The increasing threat to farmers is becoming evident as research shows that a rich diversity of pollinators is crucial for boosting crop yields. If we take measures to combat climate change, it can safeguard future crop yields, but there are still challenges to overcome.

As the world confronts complex issues like climate change, changes in land use, and loss of biodiversity, this study underscores how interconnected these issues are and highlights the vital role of these small pollinators in securing our food and farms.

Another study indicates that the global decline in pollinating organisms could endanger about 90 percent of wild plants. These pollinating bees and other insects contribute to approximately 35 percent of global food production. The benefits of pollination extend beyond fruit yield; it also impacts their quality.

The annual value of the services provided by these pollinators is estimated to be around Rs 29.5 lakh crore. These tiny creatures are particularly important for the production of about 200 crore small farmers worldwide.

Researchers highlights that climate change is not solely an environmental and biodiversity issue; it also ties to the future well-being of humans. They warn that a decrease in pollinators could result in significant losses for farmers. As a result, the researchers propose that we should undertake efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect the natural habitats of these organisms.

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