Read and access IIASA's models, tools, and data.

Research Projects

Read about individual research projects and activities at IIASA.

Research Partners

Read how IIASA works with research partners across the globe to deliver world-class research.

Models, Tools & Data

Read and access IIASA's models, tools, and data.

Political will is the only way to end hunger

Authors: Fischer G, van Velthuizen H

Publication Year: 2011

Reference: Options (IIASA, Laxenburg, Austria), Summer 2011

www.iiasa.ac.at/Options

Abstract

To feed an estimated world population of 9 billion in 2050, agricultural production would need to rise by almost 1.4 percent per year from the year 2000 baseline. This may seem small, but in fact it will take an enormous effort to achieve on the part of farmers, researchers, and agricultural extension workers. Indeed, given all the pressures involved in some regions in making the swift improvements needed in, for example, irrigation, transport infrastructure, and fertilizers, it is uncertain whether such output growth per unit of land can be achieved and sustained to 2050.