Nature-related issues in agribusiness value chains: The case for Californian almonds

About this Case Study

This case study sheds light on nature-related dependencies and risks in global agribusiness value chains, specifically focussing on the almond industry in California. By understanding the industry’s nature-related dependencies, four nature-related risks are identified.

The study also highlights the strategies the sector has adopted or is exploring to ensure the long-term supply of water and pollination, which are crucial for the long-term resilience of Californian almond production.

The almond industry depends on two key ecosystem services: water supply and pollination. Persistent water scarcity and drought conditions in California, coupled with declining bee health and population, pose significant risks to the long-term sustainability of the Californian almond industry. These risks, in turn, impact a range of global value chains dependent on Californian almond production, given its dominant global market share.

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