Climate Change Threatens Greek Agriculture with Declining Crop Yields

Rising temperatures, more frequent droughts and heatwaves are reshaping agriculture across Southern Europe, especially in Greece. Scientific bodies such as the IPCC warn that each additional degree of warming could cut wheat and barley yields by 3‑10 %. Summer water deficits may render many crops unsustainable without systematic irrigation, while increased rainfall in winter can cause flooding and soil saturation, also reducing yields.

The harsher climate also amplifies pest and disease pressure, raising plant‑protection costs for European farmers. Livestock sectors face reduced pasture productivity and limited feed availability due to recurring heatwaves and dry spells. Projections suggest that 10‑34 % of currently arable land worldwide could become unsuitable by the end of the century. In response, cultivation zones are expected to shift northward, offering new opportunities in some regions but overall lowering total agricultural output in the Mediterranean.

These trends heighten economic uncertainty for Greek farmers and could affect food security and rural livelihoods throughout the region.