Agriculture and food policy

Abstract

Agriculture and food security in the 21st century will be globally affected by three long-term trends: global warming, an expanding world population, and increasing demand for meat and dairy products. As mentioned in the first chapter of this text, global warming and its risks to our food security are existential challenges for Europe and the entire world. The rise of global temperatures is likely to increase the number of undernourished people by the millions. It is also expected to affect southern Europe dramatically, with prolonged periods of drought, desertification in certain areas, and crop failures. Declining water supplies in this region are predicted to push down agriculture and food production. Global population is projected to increase by about 1,5 billion people by 2050, compared to today. That increase will be accompanied by a rise in living standards across the world and a greater demand for diets rich in meat and dairy products. More crops and water will be needed to feed animals and more land set aside for that purpose.