Image Source : GEA
Malta’s olive growers are sounding the alarm over the devastating impact of climate change on the island’s iconic Bidni olive harvest. The effects of rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns have led to a drastic decline in fruit production, with harvest statistics revealing a 69% decrease in 2024 compared to the previous year. This sharp drop is part of a worrying trend, with decreases of 74% from 2022 and 45% from 2021.
Immanuel Grima of Breeds of Origin Conservancy, an NGO dedicated to preserving Maltese biodiversity, attributes the decline to climate change. “Climate change is clearly emerging as the primary factor behind the reduction in agricultural products, with its effects becoming increasingly evident in olive cultivation.” The persistent heat throughout the year prevented olive trees from entering their crucial dormancy phase, compromising their health and productivity.
Unfavorable weather conditions, including strong winds and storms in April, further exacerbated the damage. Delicate olive flowers fell prematurely, disrupting pollination and severely reducing fruit yield. The lack of rainfall only compounded the issue, resulting in the poorest harvest recorded in recent years.
The Bidni olive, a cherished variety in Malta, is particularly vulnerable to climate fluctuations. Its unique characteristics and adaptability to the island’s soil and climate make it an integral part of Maltese culture and cuisine. However, the changing environmental conditions threaten the very survival of this beloved olive variety.
Experts warn that urgent action is necessary to address the agricultural challenges posed by climate change. Supporting local farmers, adopting sustainable practices, and implementing climate-resilient cultivation methods are critical steps in preserving Malta’s olive heritage. The dramatic decline of the Bidni olive harvest serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for climate action and sustainable agriculture practices.
As Malta’s olive growers struggle to cope with the consequences of climate change, the long-term implications for the island’s food security, cultural identity, and economic stability become increasingly clear. The plight of the Bidni olive highlights the imperative for collective action to mitigate the effects of climate change and ensure the resilience of Malta’s agricultural sector.