Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the severe impact of unprecedented drought and extreme weather conditions on apple production in China, particularly in Shaanxi province, which is the largest apple-producing region in the country. The ongoing climate changes pose significant threats to agricultural productivity and food security [1][2][3]. Group 1: Drought and Weather Impact - This year marks one of the most challenging droughts in 30 years, severely affecting apple orchards in Shaanxi, with farmers reporting significant losses due to dry soil conditions [1]. - Shaanxi province accounts for approximately 31.07% of the national apple planting area and 27.03% of the total apple production in China, with a production volume of 13.02 million tons in 2022 [2]. - Farmers are facing multiple pressures from climate change, including drought, frost, and hail, which complicate orchard management and increase costs [2][3]. Group 2: Economic Consequences - The drought has led to a nearly 50% reduction in apple yields for certain varieties, with prices per pound increasing by 0.5 to 1 yuan compared to last year [7]. - Farmers are compelled to increase pesticide and fertilizer usage to combat the effects of irregular rainfall and pest outbreaks, significantly raising their overall production costs [7][12]. - The shift in weather patterns has forced some farmers to transition from apple cultivation to more resilient crops like corn to stabilize their income [12]. Group 3: Adaptation Strategies - Farmers are adopting various measures to mitigate losses, including the installation of drip irrigation systems, hail nets, and wind machines, with cooperative farms leveraging better funding for advanced technologies [11][13]. - Individual farmers often resort to traditional methods, such as using smoke to raise ground temperatures during frost events, while also employing plastic film to retain soil moisture [11][12]. - The reliance on insurance has increased among farmers to protect against potential losses from extreme weather events [12]. Group 4: Labor and Future Challenges - The agricultural sector faces a significant shortage of young labor, with rural populations declining as urbanization accelerates, leading to an aging workforce [15]. - The article emphasizes the need for technological support and modernization in agriculture to address the vulnerabilities posed by climate change and market fluctuations [15]. - The financial burden of implementing protective measures against climate risks remains a critical challenge for both individual farmers and cooperatives [14].
再这么下去,苹果要吃不起了
Hu Xiu·2025-05-24 07:10