Climate change is being blamed for the rising costs of chocolate Easter eggs this year, as a heatwave in West Africa has severely impacted cocoa crops. Researchers have found that human-induced climate change has made extreme heat 10 times more likely in the region.
The increase in prices for popular chocolate Easter eggs has been significant, with some eggs seeing a price rise of more than 50%. The shortage of cocoa has caused prices to soar to almost $8,500 a tonne this week, affecting chocolate makers and consumers alike.
Cocoa trees are particularly vulnerable to changes in the climate, as they only grow in a narrow band around the Equator. The majority of global cocoa production comes from West Africa, with countries like Ivory Coast and Ghana being major exporters to countries like the UK.
Severe drought conditions and record-breaking temperatures in West Africa have led to a decrease in cocoa yields, with experts warning that if fossil fuel use is not reduced, similar heatwaves could occur every two years in the future.
In addition to the extreme heat, countries like Ivory Coast and Ghana have also faced challenges from intense rains and fungal infections, further impacting cocoa production. The combination of these extreme events has caused cocoa prices to triple over the past year and double in the last three months.
Chocolate makers are already feeling the effects of rising cocoa prices, with some companies announcing price increases to cover the additional costs. The impact is also felt by the two million smallholder farmers in West Africa who rely on cocoa for their livelihoods.
As climate change continues to worsen, experts are calling for more support to help farmers cope with extreme weather events and ensure the steady supply of cocoa beans. It is clear that the effects of climate change are not only felt in terms of rising costs for consumers but also in the livelihoods of those who grow the cocoa that goes into our favorite chocolate treats.