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How Climate Change Could Affect Half of Global Crops — a field of grass with a power line in the background

How Climate Change Could Affect Half of Global CropsCEFR B1

19 Mar 2025

Adapted from Claudia Caruana, SciDev CC BY 2.0

Photo by Joey Huang, Unsplash

AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.

Climate change poses significant threats to global food crops, with rising temperatures potentially impacting major agricultural production. A study indicates that as global temperatures increase, especially in low-latitude regions, up to half of crop production could be at risk. The research highlights that staple crops like rice, maize, and wheat are particularly vulnerable, straining food security in already at-risk areas.

In low-latitude countries, the combination of climate change and socio-economic issues may lead to a decline in crop diversity. This loss hampers food security, making it more difficult for communities to access vital nutrients.

Experts argue that there is an urgent need to develop climate-resilient crop varieties and improve farming practices like irrigation and soil management to protect food systems. These measures are crucial as the challenges posed by climate change increase.

Difficult words

  • vulnerableEasily harmed or damaged.
  • diversityVariety, difference in kinds.
  • securityProtection or safety from danger.
  • impactingHaving a strong effect on something.
  • responsiveAble to recover or adapt quickly.
    resilient
  • productionThe process of making goods or crops.

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

Discussion questions

  • What are some ways communities can adapt to climate change?
  • How does food security influence people's health?
  • Why is it important to develop climate-resilient crops?

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