The high demand and intensive production of avocados continues to cause irretrievable
damage to the environment.
Every year, 11 billion pounds of avocado are consumed worldwide. With an intense thirst,
each avocado requires approximately 70 litres of water for its production. Human beings, on
the other hand require 50-100 litres of water to meet their basic needs.
According to Statista, Mexico exports the highest value of avocados. To meet increased demand and increase output, trees (and shrubs) have been cut down and forests have been destroyed. These factors have contributed to climate change.
The Uruapan municipality is a major avocado producing area in Mexico. Uruapan witnessed minor earthquake activity over a 10-day period, with 3,247 seismic movements reported. This activity “could have been an unexpected result of avocado-related water extraction” according to the local authorities.
Research by the National Autonomous University of Mexico Campus Morelia identified that the state also has a new tendency to be increasingly hot and dry.
One pack of two avocados has an emissions footprint of 846.36g CO2 according to a study conducted by Carbon Footprint Ltd. Despite these factors, the superfruit remains highly popular due to its association with a healthy lifestyle and veganism.
According to an article by CBC News, avocado trees have “a complicated fruit-bearing process and no avocado tree bears fruit until it’s 10 years old.”
It’s essential for the community as a whole to take certain steps when it comes to avocado consumption. One should try and find alternatives to avocados such as nut butters, chia seeds, etc.
In CBC News’ article, a researcher in tropical fruit production Alyssa Cho mentioned that people can buy avocados in season and also support local growers.
