Ep 1. The Avocado War

Rotten season 2 episode 1, titled "The Avocado War," dives into the complex and often problematic world of the global avocado trade. The episode begins by exploring the massive rise in popularity of avocados over the past few years and how this demand has resulted in an avocado war between Mexico and California.

The first part of the episode focuses on Mexico, which is the leading producer of avocados worldwide. We are introduced to a group of small-scale farmers who have been growing avocados for generations. However, over the past few years, they have been pushed out by a growing number of large-scale producers who are encroaching on their land and taking over the market. These small farmers are struggling to make ends meet, and their avocado trees are being destroyed by the larger companies using heavy machinery to remove them from the ground.

We also meet a group of laborers who work on these large-scale avocado farms, many of whom are undocumented immigrants. They work long hours, are paid very little, and often do not have access to basic labor protections. We learn that these laborers are highly vulnerable to exploitation and abuse, something that is all too common in the agribusiness industry.

The episode then shifts its focus to California, where we meet a group of farmers who are trying to break into the lucrative avocado market. We learn that growing avocados in California is not an easy task, as the climate and conditions are not as ideal as they are in Mexico. Nevertheless, these farmers are investing heavily in avocado cultivation, hoping to cash in on the growing demand.

However, as we soon learn, the California avocado industry is also facing its own set of challenges. One of the biggest is the issue of water scarcity. Avocado trees require a lot of water, and in a state like California, where droughts are becoming more frequent, this is a major problem. We see how farmers are resorting to different methods of irrigation, including using recycled wastewater, to keep their trees alive.

The episode also explores the environmental impact of the avocado trade. We learn that avocado farming requires a great deal of resources, including land, water, and pesticides. This has led to significant deforestation in Mexico, as well as water shortages and pollution in both Mexico and California. We see how these practices are contributing to climate change and environmental degradation, and the devastating impact this is having on local communities.

Overall, Rotten season 2 episode 1 provides a nuanced and insightful look into the complex world of avocado production and trade. It highlights the many challenges that farmers, laborers, and communities face, as well as the environmental impact of this growing industry. The episode ends on a somewhat hopeful note, as we see how some farmers and activists are working to create more sustainable and ethical practices within the avocado trade. However, it also makes it clear that much work remains to be done to ensure a more just and equitable avocado industry for all.