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The three primary factors that affected recent increases in
world crop production are (FAO, 2003; 2006):
Increased cropland and rangeland area (15% contribu-
tion in 1961–1999);
Increased yield per unit area (78% contribution); and
Greater cropping intensity (7% percent contribution).
Trends in crop production and in these three factors are
illustrated in Figures 7, 8 and 9.
The use of fertilizers accounts for approximately 50% of
the yield increase, and greater irrigation for another sub-
stantial part (FAO, 2003). Current FAO projections in
food demand suggest that cereal demand will increase by
almost 50% towards 2050 (FAO, 2003; 2006). This can
either be obtained by increasing yields, continued expan-
sion of cropland by conversion of natural habitats, or by
optimizing food or feed energy efficiency from production
to consumption.
FOOD FROM CROPS
Figure 7: Production increase in yield and area (1965–2008) of
several key crops.
Yield increases have generally exceeded areal
increases. (Source: World Bank, 2009).
Annual production increase
1965-2008 (%)
Yield growth
Cotton
Wheat
Rice
Maize
Soybeans
Area increase
0
1
2
3
4%
1)
2)
3)