Crisis looms for olive oil industry amid extreme heat and drought

The olive oil industry is facing a crisis as extreme heat and drought caused by climate change threaten olive trees and lead to potential shortages and skyrocketing prices. Last year's bad olive harvest, combined with scorching temperatures this summer, could result in a 30% drop in European olive oil production compared to the five-year average. Bulk prices have already doubled, and the International Olive Council predicts a 20% global drop in olive oil production. This problem extends beyond olive oil, as extreme heat and climate change disrupt crop production worldwide, leading to concerns about food security in the future.