Can the world be fed?
Above all else, Pettigrew said technology will play a significant role in the world’s ability to meet expanding food needs. In the past 30 years, agriculture has managed to double food production, and it is important to recognize that it did not just magically happen. Agriculture made it happen, and we have a responsibility to make sure that continues to happen into the future, he said.
By 2050, the world will need twice as much crop production as there is now. This will be the result of the population increase ahead, said Pettigrew, as well improved living standards that will lead to greater protein consumption. Given the future constraints of limited land and water, he said technology — and its continued adoption — is the only solution.
