Agribusiness Flashcards
What is agribusiness?
Agribusiness is when a farm is run like a large industrial business, focusing on large-scale, profit-driven, and intensive commercial activities.
How does the size of farms increase in agribusiness?
By increasing field size, removing hedgerows, increasing mechanization (using more machinery), combining small family farms, and using high-tech solutions such as improved seeds and a greater use of pesticides and fertilizers.
What is meant by “farm to fork”?
“Farm to fork” refers to when agribusinesses own the processing factories, transport, and shops where the product is sold, controlling the entire supply chain from production to sale.
What are some disadvantages of agribusiness?
Harm to the environment due to increased chemical use, decreased employment as fewer people are needed on farms, and small family farms struggling to compete with larger farms.
Why might employment decrease in agribusiness?
Employment decreases because fewer people are needed on farms due to the use of machinery and automation.
Why do small family farms struggle to compete with larger farms in agribusiness?
Large farms have more resources and economies of scale, making it difficult for smaller farms to compete.
What risks does agribusiness face due to seasonal changes?
Seasonal changes can shape profits due to weather and climate impacts on livestock, insect infestations, and livestock disease.
How can weather and climate impact livestock in agribusiness?
Weather and climate changes can alter livestock health and availability of feed, affecting productivity.
What are some other risks that agribusiness faces in terms of livestock?
Risks include insect infestations and livestock death from disease.
What are some positives of agribusiness?
Agribusiness can improve food security, lower consumer prices, and create jobs for skilled workers in modern agricultural practices.
How can agribusiness contribute to food security?
By producing food on a large scale, agribusiness can help ensure a stable and sufficient food supply.
Why might agribusiness lead to lower consumer prices?
Overheads are reduced due to efficiencies in large-scale operations, leading to lower prices for consumers.
How does agribusiness create job opportunities for skilled workers?
It creates roles for skilled workers in areas like research, technology, and agricultural development, as modern practices become more complex.
