Environmental Science - Industrial Agriculture and the Food Supply

Explore the complexities of modern food production and its impact on global nutrition in this hour-long lecture. Delve into the central case study of transgenic maize in Southern Mexico, examining the challenges of undernutrition, overnutrition, and malnutrition. Analyze the mixed consequences of the Green Revolution and the effects of biofuels on food supplies. Investigate various food sources, including cropland agriculture, animal farming, and aquaculture, while considering their energy implications. Learn about the importance of crop diversity, pollinator conservation, and the challenges posed by pests and weeds in agriculture. Gain insights into the intricate relationship between farming practices, resource management, and the global food supply.

Intro
Central Case Study: Transgenic Maize in Southern Mexico?
We face undernutrition, overnutrition, and malnutrition
The Green Revolution brought mixed consequences
Some biofuels reduce food supplies
Raising Animals for Food Food from cropland agriculture
Our food choices are also energy choices
Aquaculture brings benefits and has negative impacts
Crop diversity provides insurance against failure
Conservation of pollinators is vital
"Pests" and "weeds" hinder agriculture • Pest -any organism that damages valuable crops