Strategies in Increasing Food Supply

Answer 1

Irrigation involves supplying water to land to help crops and plants grow. Irrigation can increase or maintain crop yields when water supply is low or unreliable, such as in arid and semi-arid climates
Different types include:

Question 2

Aeroponics and Hydroponics

Answer 2

Aeroponics and hydroponics involve growing plants in a controlled environment without soil. They use far less water than traditional soil growing and enable closer monitoring, so conditions can be optimised for maximum growth. Plants can also be stacked on top of each other to save space

Question 3

Aeroponics

Answer 3

Aeroponics involves growing plants in an air or mist environment. Plant roots are suspended in the air, and nutrient-rich water is routinely sprayed onto the roots

Question 4

Hydroponics

Answer 4

Hydroponics involves growing plants in mineral nutrient solutions. Plant roots are dangled into a basin containing a nutrient solution

Question 5

The New Green Revolution

Answer 5

The Green Revolution of the mid-20th century saw the emergence of new agricultural technologies, including new seed strains and the use of chemical fertilizers and commercial farming. While these methods increased productivity, they also caused environmental damage. The methods of the New Green Revolution include teaching people to breed pest and drought-resistant plants, using genetic pest and disease control, crop rotation and nutrient cycling, and traditional farming methods.

Question 6

Use of Biotechnology

Answer 6

Biotechnology uses genetic engineering to improve production, including genetically modifying crops for benefits such as improved nutritional value, shelf life, and resistance to drought and pests. However, the effects of GM foods on the environment and human health are still largely unknown, and many are concerned about their impact on natural biodiversity and ecosystems. Consequently, the use of GM foods remains limited, with some countries even banning them.

Question 7

Appropriate Technology

Answer 7

Appropriate technology involves implementing practical farming methods that are suitable for the communities in which they will be used. Methods of appropriate technology in LICs include:
* Drop irrigation using locally sourced materials
* Renewable, locally available energy sources such as wind or solar power
* Individual, human-power water pumps