Heat Threatens Latin America Banana Industry, Puts Global Supply at Risk
Climate Pressures Shrinking Banana-Growing Zones
Rising global temperatures are pushing Latin America’s banana-producing regions toward unsuitability, with new research warning that by 2080, up to 60% of current export-suitable areas could be lost without urgent climate action.
Brazil’s Farmers Struggle in the Heat
In Brazil’s northeastern state of Bahia, banana farmers are already facing severe impacts. Even with irrigation, plantations are showing signs of stress during prolonged heatwaves. In 2023, extreme heat reduced harvest output by 15%, and similar conditions are likely to return this year.
Major Exporters Under Threat
The most vulnerable areas include Colombia and Costa Rica, key banana exporters to Europe and North America. These regions are experiencing rising te...