How to Feed 11 Billion People: Addressing 21st Century's Biggest Challenge

Alexandria, VA - The challenge of feeding our planet’s growing population is a critical one. As the human population continues to rise, geoscience is informing experts, suggesting major shifts in agriculture must be taken to prevent rampant food insecurity by the year 2050.

Based on model estimates, remotely sensed data and agricultural studies, scientists have been able to identify approximately how much food needs to be available to feed the 11 billion people expected on Earth by 2100. Researchers note that already food-insecure populations in Southeast Asia and Africa could face the dire consequences if the status quo remains unchanged.

The challenge is not just identifying how to increase crop yields, but also monitoring soil nutrients, planning for changing climate and addressing sustainable water use. Learn how scientists are helping figure out how to feed the world in the February issue of EARTH Magazine.