Description: The growing demand for food and biomass in the future will increase the pressure on resources and ecosystems and may jeopardize the realization of MDG1 (reduction of poverty and hunger) and MDG7 (environmental sustainability). There is wide agreement that the productivity and eco-efficiency of agricultural systems should increase to meet future global demands. However, quantitative information is lacking on where and how to realize such systems. Therefore, the availability and distribution of biophysical and socio-economic resources should be made explicit at regional and global levels and the potentials of eco-efficient systems should be ex-ante assessed. This will provide evidence-based policy options and supports the identification of various domains for rural/agricultural development.
Research objectives: The aim of the project in 2010 is:
1. To quantify the resource inputs needed for increasing agricultural productivity (that is land, water, nitrogen, phosphor and a number of socio-economic inputs) at regional level. 2. To quantify the contribution of eco-efficient production systems to reducing resource needs at higher productivity.
We will use Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) as a case study area, as resource scarcity is strongly limiting current productivity in African agriculture and contributes to the widespread poverty and hunger. Moreover, it is claimed that Africa has a large potential for producing agricultural commodities (bio-energy crops, for example) for other parts of the world.
After consultation with the ministry of LNV it can be decided at the end of 2010 which direction the reseach will take in 2011 and thereafter.
Results and products:
. Policy brief on total input requirements for higher productivity levels of African agriculture. . In consultation with LNV, policy briefs can be prepared focusing on specific resources (for example, phosphorus or water). . In consultation with LNV, different lunch meetings can be held presenting plans and results of the project. . In consultation with LNV, contributions can be made to international fora/agendas/conferences, such as Stockholm Water Week, CSD, World Food Day, FAO meetings, and others. . Report describing the methodology. |