Can climate change lead to a beer shortage? Especially during long periods of heat, Germans traditionally cool down with a glass of beer. But this idyll could soon be a thing of the past. More and more agricultural experts fear that climate change could lead to reduced barley yields. In recent years it has been happening more and more oftento long periods of heat, which tolerates the sensitive barley poorly. Even in spring, farmers in the southern federal states can feel the consequences of climate change all too well: long dry periods have a very negative effect on the brewing barley they grow. If the forecasts are correct, beer prices could rise nationwide. Is beer becoming a luxury item?
Can climate change lead to beer shortages? Farmers expect less barley this year
For more than 5 years, farmers in the southern parts of Germany have been reporting particularly aggressive sun and heat waves. The hot days begin in mid-May, which has a very negative impact on grain yields. This could be a particular cause for concern for beer lovers. Because longer dry periods are becoming more and more common and the situation could even get worse in the future. Barley, as one of the most important ingredients in beer production, is sensitive to heat.
The damage that the strong sun causes to the plant only becomes noticeable when it is too late. German traders are also expecting lower earnings this year. This is not directly problematic for the manufacturers, as most of them have broad networks of suppliers worldwide. But it could be expensive for the consumer, because in these cases the transport costs for the barley from abroad are also included in the final price.
Can climate change lead to beer shortage: new study suggests
A study by Chinese scientists at Beijing University suggests that beer manufacturers will have a difficult time in the 21st century. Based on a weather forecast, scientists were able to show that even more heat waves are expected this century. They could lead to major losses for agriculture. Overall, yields could be between 30% and 40% less.
But since barley is also used as animal feed, there will be even less grain left over for beer manufacturers than originally expected. This could prove particularly problematic for countries such as the USA, Brazil, Chile and China. Beer consumption is particularly high there. But in Germany too, beer will probably become a luxury product in the next 50 years.
