In recent years, research led by the Harvard Chan School of Public Health has shed light on the potential impacts of high levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) on the nutritional content of crops. The study identifies a critical link between elevated atmospheric CO2 and the degradation of plant-based nutrients, a development that could put millions of people at risk for nutrient deficiencies.
Understanding the Connection between CO2 and Crop Nutrients
A plant’s ionome, or its mineral nutrient and trace element makeup, plays a crucial role in determining its nutritional value. Much of these elements come from the soil where the plant grows. However, photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert CO2 into carbohydrates and energy, also contributes significantly. The study points out that a surge in atmospheric CO2 can cause an imbalance in a plant’s ionome, leading to a decrease in the concentrations of vital nutrients.
The Significance of Protein, Iron, and Zinc
Protein, iron, and zinc are classified as essential nutrients, implying that the body doesn’t produce them independently and they need to be derived from the diet. Globally, staples such as wheat, rice and maize make up roughly 40% of the dietary provision for these nutrients. In fact, statistics reveal that approximately 60% of our protein, 80% of our iron and 70% of our zinc intake comes from crop consumption.
Effects of Nutrient Deficiencies
The shortfall of these vital nutrients can have serious health implications. A deficiency in protein, for instance, can hinder growth and development and lead to severe malnutrition or Kwashiorkor. A lack of zinc disrupts the immune system, putting children at a higher risk of contracting diseases like malaria, lung infections, and lethal diarrhoeal illnesses. Iron deficiency has been linked with increased maternal mortality during childbirth, lower IQ levels, and anaemia.
Implications of CO2 Induced Nutritional Deficiencies
The study projects that if CO2 levels reach 550ppm by 2050 as predicted, nearly 2% of the global population – equating to roughly 175 million people – could be zinc deficient. Additionally, around 122 million people might suffer from protein deficiency. Alarmingly, about 1.4 billion women of childbearing age and children below five years could be at risk of iron deficiency. This scenario puts over 2 billion people worldwide at risk of being deficient in one or more nutrients.
Projected Global Impact
These deficiencies could significantly impact regions like Africa, Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East, with hundreds of millions of people potentially becoming newly deficient in these essential nutrients. India could bear the most substantial burden, with an estimated 50 million people becoming zinc deficient, 38 million people facing protein deficiency, and a staggering 502 million women and children potentially susceptible to diseases associated with iron deficiency.
Cutting GHGs: India’s Commitment to Climate Action
India has recognized the urgent need to combat climate change and its effects on food security. Through comprehensive Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) based on the Paris Agreement, the country is working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to changing climatic conditions. These measures are part of India’s multi-pronged approach to achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing the direct link between the mitigation of climate change and global health security.
