Food Demand to Double by 2050

Researchers from the University of Minnesota say that global food demand could double by 2050, leading to detrimental effects on the environment. Published by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the research suggests that the huge increase in food demand can be supplied with less environmental impact if poor nations adopt nitrogen-efficient farming techniques, rather than clearing more land. Leading the study, professor of ecology David Tilman says that global agriculture is currently responsible for a third of all greenhouse gas emissions. Earlier this year, the Environmental Working Group analyzed the carbon footprints of 20 different foods—topping the list were lamb, beef, cheese, pork, and farmed salmon.