Chocolate s new climate threat

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Intelligence Network • Data Science • AI Research • World News
Published: 2026-09-14T19:00:37.744Z • Permanent link

Cocoa farmers in West Africa are facing a growing threat to their livelihoods and crops due to intense downpours, which can cause significant damage to their plants. The impact is particularly pronounced in countries such as Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire, where cocoa is a major export commodity. According to data from the International Cocoa Organization, global cocoa production is projected to decline by 10% in 2023 due to weather-related events, affecting not only farmers but also companies that rely on cocoa for their products.

Industry leaders such as Barry Callebaut, a Swiss-based chocolate manufacturer, are taking steps to mitigate the risks associated with climate change. The company has invested in research and development to create more resilient cocoa varieties, and is also working with farmers to implement sustainable agricultural practices. Meanwhile, organizations such as the World Cocoa Foundation are providing support to farmers in West Africa to help them adapt to the changing climate.

Data from NASA's Terra satellite has shown that West Africa is experiencing an increase in intense rainfall events, which is contributing to the decline in cocoa production. The data also highlights the need for more effective climate modeling and prediction tools to help farmers anticipate and prepare for these events. By taking proactive steps to address the challenges posed by climate change, farmers, companies, and organizations can work together to ensure the long-term sustainability of the cocoa industry.

The impact of climate change on the cocoa industry has significant implications for companies that rely on cocoa for their products. Companies such as Nestle, Mondelez International, and Mars Inc. are major consumers of cocoa, and any decline in production can have a ripple effect on their business operations. Research communities and policymakers are also taking notice, with many calling for more effective climate mitigation and adaptation strategies to be put in place.

The cocoa industry is also closely tied to the global economy, with many countries relying on cocoa exports as a significant source of revenue. In countries such as Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire, cocoa is a major driver of economic growth, and any decline in production can have far-reaching consequences for the local economy. As such, it is essential that policymakers and industry leaders take a proactive approach to addressing the challenges posed by climate change.

The impact of climate change on the cocoa industry is part of a larger pattern of environmental degradation and economic disruption that is affecting many industries around the world. The European Union's Green Deal, for example, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030, while the United States' Climate Action Plan targets a reduction of 26-28% in greenhouse gas emissions by 2025. Meanwhile, the African continent is also experiencing significant environmental challenges, including deforestation, desertification, and soil degradation.