Researchers used satellite data and machine learning to measure tree cover on cocoa farms. They studied Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, where almost two thirds of the world’s cocoa is grown. The study found only about five per cent of cocoa is grown on farms with at least 30 per cent shade from large trees.
The researchers estimate that adding enough trees to reach 30 per cent shade would store extra carbon and could offset 167 per cent of cocoa-related greenhouse gas emissions in the two countries without reducing production. Shade trees also cool the farm, keep more soil moisture and help the insects that pollinate cocoa. Adoption is low because trees take time and money. Since 2018, 43 million seedlings have been distributed, and the study’s method could help target new plantings.
Difficult words
- agroforestry — Farming method with trees and other plants.
- cocoa — A type of bean used to make chocolate.cocoa farming, cocoa is grown
- shade — Area that is darkened by something overhead.shade trees
- farmer — Person who grows crops or raises animals.farmers, cocoa farmers
- yield — Amount of crops produced from farming.yields
- environment — Natural world around us, including plants and animals.
- emissions — Gases sent into the air, often from factories.
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Discussion questions
- How can agroforestry benefit farmers?
- What are the advantages of shade trees for crops?
- Why might some farmers not use shade trees?
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