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Reaping the benefitsa Science and the sustainable intensification of global agriculture

The Royal Society has published a report that argues the need for a 'sustainable intensification' of global agriculture in which yields are increased without adverse environmental impact and without the cultivation of more land. It states that the Research Councils UK(RCUK) should develop a cross-council "grand challenge" on global food crop security as a priority. This needs to secure at least approximately £2 billion over 10 years to make a substantial difference.

The Royal Society has published a report that argues the need for a 'sustainable intensification' of global agriculture in which yields are increased without adverse environmental impact and without the cultivation of more land. It states that the Research Councils UK(RCUK) should develop a cross-council "grand challenge" on global food crop security as a priority. This needs to secure at least approximately £2 billion over 10 years to make a substantial difference.

The report begins by setting out the challenges to food crop production. It then examines in detail the various technologies that might be used to enhance production, with the conclusion that a diversity of approaches are needed. Due to the scale of the challenge, no technology should be ruled out, and different strategies may need to be employed in different regions and circumstances. Finally, consideration is given to the consequences and complications of food crop innovation.

You can download the report here.

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