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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)