Scientists investigate varieties that can defy climate change
Researchers are racing to find tea varieties able withstand the effects of changing climate that may impact leaf quality, yields and production methods in tea growing regions. Experiments in India are under way to analyze how varieties react to different climatic models by modifying the temperature and carbon levels in laboratory growing conditions. Scientists are testing field varieties and clones to see which ones can adapt to future climatic conditions. Growers are bearing the brunt of the effects of climate change, with erratic weather conditions impacting harvest schedules, pest attacks and yields. Quality may also suffer as a result, leading to negative effects on sales of specialty varieties. In the region of Assam, scientists have recorded a drop of 200 mm in average annual rainfall and an increase in minimum temperature of 1.3 degrees Celsius over the last 100 years.