60 pc of banana growing areas hit by climate change globally; calls for more support to farmers

A report highlights how 60 per cent of the best banana growing areas globally are in danger from rising temperatures.

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"Climate change has been killing our crops," remarked Aurelia Pop Xo, a banana grower in Guatemala.

The report published on Monday by the international development charity Christian Aid said extreme weather, rising temperatures and climate-related pests pose a threat to banana producing regions, sparking calls for faster emission cuts and more support for farmers.

Currently, Latin America and the Caribbean are responsible for 80 per cent of banana exports which supply supermarkets around the world.

However, the report highlights 60 per cent of the most suitable banana growing areas in that region could be lost by 2080 due to rising temperatures and extreme weather.

India is one of the largest producers of banana in the world with 29.7 million tonnes from an area of 0.88 million hectares with a productivity of 37 MT/ha.

Although India accounts for only 15.5 per cent in area, its contribution in the world’s production is 25.58 per cent, say Indian experts.

For many people, a banana is not just an enjoyable fruit, but a staple part of their diet and essential for survival.