01/09/2026
Midlands energy expert Ron Fox, of Noreus Ltd on the University of Keele Science Innovation Park (www.noreus.co.uk), picks one of his favourite recent environmental tales...
There may be a bitter taste in the mouth for tea drinkers in future because of the increasingly erratic weather, says a report by Christian Aid. The charity says that the well-known tea brands depend on stable temperatures and reliable rainfall, but these conditions are becoming less predictable as the planet warms. This in turn is disrupting the balance of compounds such as catechins, amino acids and polyphenols that determine a tea’s flavour and quality. Leading tea-producing countries such as Kenya, India and Sri Lanka, which have all experienced more frequent extreme weather and rising temperatures, say it is getting harder to guarantee the familiar taste of the beloved smooth British brew with smaller tea leaves and climate changes. Christian Aid is calling for more support for farmers and warn the weather disruption is likely to push up prices for tea drinkers.
“It is amazing to read how climate change is affecting so many aspects of our life, some of which are totally unexpected,” said Ron. “But it is also very encouraging to see how humans are coming up with incredible solutions to these problems.”
This article raises some interesting questions, he added. Have you noticed any changes in the taste of your daily cup of tea? Have your holidays been affected in any way by climate change? Should we be doing more to protect our animals in these soaring temperatures? Send your views to Ron Fox at [email protected]
Ron added: “If you want any green energy advice, call me on 0845 474 6641 or contact me here.”
