Economist Podcasts The diet is cast: a coming food catastrophe
Jun 1, 2022
Matyau Favas, Finance correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the looming global food crisis fueled by the war in Ukraine, leading to skyrocketing prices and mounting hunger. Tom Vatter, Culture writer for The Economist, takes us through the intriguing history of Bangkok's Patpong red-light district, now a cultural landmark. They discuss the ethical implications of advancing genetic screening for newborns, exploring medical possibilities while addressing privacy and ethical concerns. A captivating blend of urgent global issues and cultural reflections!
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Climate Change Impacts
- India's wheat harvest is expected to be lower due to intense heat, and China's crop might be its worst in history due to floods.
- These climate-related issues add to the global food shortage.
Alleviating the Crisis
- Reduce grain consumption by livestock, produce less biofuel, and increase exports from Ukraine via road and rail.
- Also, help affected countries financially through favorable import terms.
Newborn Screening and Ethics
- Whole genome sequencing for newborns allows for early detection of many genetic diseases, enabling better treatment.
- However, it raises ethical questions, especially regarding privacy and parental choice.