Food supply issues

Question 1

Describe the characteristics of an intensive subsistence agricultural system. 5 marks

Answer 1

Rice in SE Asia;

• High level of inputs such as labour, fertilisers, to ensure maximum output from available land.
• It is the input of a lot of labour where many people work to ensure high productivity.
• In the case of subsistence farming where the main aim of production is to supply a source of food for the farmer and family, it is the labour – often that of the extended family – that reflects the intensive aspect.