- Global warming already affects many food crops worldwide.
- Global temperatures rose above pre-industrial levels last year.
- Low-latitude countries will be worst affected by warming.
- Staple foods like rice and maize will suffer.
- Some tropical roots such as yam are very vulnerable.
- Farmers may lose land that is suitable for crops.
- People in poor regions could face more hunger and malnutrition.
- Improving seeds, irrigation and local crops can help.
- Local support and finance are also important.
Difficult words
- global warming — a long-term rise in Earth's average temperature
- low-latitude — areas near the equator with warm climate
- staple — a main food eaten every day
- vulnerable — likely to be harmed or damaged
- irrigation — water supply for fields and crops
- malnutrition — poor health from not enough good food
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Which staple food do you like: rice or maize?
- Do you or your family grow food at home?
- Name one thing that can help farmers (one word).
Related articles
Courts and the right to a healthy environment in Pakistan
Pakistan’s courts have recognised a constitutional right to a healthy environment through landmark cases and a new amendment. Legal advances face many limits, including weak civil society support, funding problems and gaps in judicial expertise.
India's rice export ban prompts push for hybrid rice
India's ban on exports of non-basmati white rice aims to protect local supplies but has tightened global food stocks. Experts and some countries are turning to hybrid rice and investment in farming, while programmes in Asia and Africa expand.
Lake Tana: Turning Water Hyacinth into Home Energy
Fishermen around Lake Tana faced problems from invasive water hyacinth. Researchers led by Yezbie Kassa tested small biogas systems that use the weed and animal dung to make cooking gas and fertiliser, helping some families but facing scaling challenges.