The prices of staple foods will more than double in 20 years unless world leaders take action to reform the global food system, Oxfam has warned. By 2030, the average cost of key crops will increase by between 120% and 180%, the charity forecasts. Half of that increase will be caused by climate change, Oxfam predicts, in its report Growing a Better Future. It calls on world leaders to improve regulation of food markets and invest in a global climate fund. "The food system must be overhauled if we are to overcome the increasingly pressing challenges of climate change, spiralling food prices and the scarcity of land, water and energy," said Barbara Stocking, Oxfam's chief executive. The story is here http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-13597657 What are your thoughts on this?
It will double a lot faster than that. Certain products are going up by around 10-20% already. High gas prices and disruption to the supply chain, caused by human conflicts, natural disasters, and climate change will ensure that prices go up. Those in the third world who live on a subsistence income will suffer the most.
Our local news said the cost of food is going to go up 15% before the end of summer. Every time I go to the grocery store I see at least 5+ people buying Roman Noodles by the case. I honestly feel sorry for them but with today's food prices what do you do. When my wife and I go to the grocery store we spend at least $250. Thank god my wife has a good paying job or we would be screwed!
Quite possible. Places like Australia and West Africa are unable to produce the amount of food which they used to produce due to droughts and other calamities. Even Russia suffered from severe drought last year and exports of wheat were banned. As side effects from climate change worsens, the agricultural produce will lessen, and this will cause the increase in food prices.
