Short Wave Is It Possible To Feed The World Sustainably?
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Feb 28, 2024 Hannah Ritchie tackles the challenge of sustainably feeding our growing population. Discussions reveal the surprising decline in global farmland and its role in reducing deforestation. The intricate relationship between food production and hunger uncovers waste and inefficiencies that hinder access to nourishment. A data-driven look at local and organic eating challenges common beliefs about carbon footprints. Innovative strategies propose dietary shifts and farming advancements as essential for a sustainable future.
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Declining Farmland
- Global hunger is a major economic issue, with about 10% of the world undernourished.
- Surprisingly, global land use for agriculture has decreased since 2000, suggesting peak farmland.
Food Production Exceeds Consumption
- The world produces more food than needed, equivalent to about 5,000 calories per person daily.
- Losses occur due to waste, biofuel production, industrial uses, and animal feed.
Root Causes of Hunger
- Two main reasons for hunger are allocation problems (crops going to biofuels and livestock) and local blockages (wars, disasters, etc.).
- We already produce enough food to feed the current global population.
