Effect of increased concentrations of atmospheric carbon dioxide on the global threat of zinc deficiency

Summary

This modelling study, published in The Lancet Global Health, draws on experimental evidence that elevated atmospheric CO2 reduces the zinc content of staple food crops, and projects the consequent increase in human populations at risk of zinc deficiency globally. Myers et al. estimate that hundreds of millions of people — particularly in low- and middle-income countries heavily reliant on plant-based staples — may face heightened micronutrient deficiency as CO2 concentrations rise. The paper contributes to a growing body of evidence linking climate change to nutritional outcomes through changes in food quality rather than food quantity alone.

UK applicability

Although the greatest burden falls on populations in South and Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa where reliance on staple grains is highest, the findings are relevant to UK policy on food security, international development, and the nutritional implications of climate change for global food systems the UK participates in.

Key measures

Zinc concentration in staple crops (mg/kg); population at risk of zinc deficiency (millions); atmospheric CO2 concentration (ppm)

Outcomes reported

The study estimated the number of people at additional risk of zinc deficiency attributable to CO2-driven reductions in zinc concentrations in staple crops. It modelled population-level dietary zinc adequacy under projected atmospheric CO2 concentrations.

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