Towards sustainable agriculture

Some Key Findings of the International Assessment of Agricultural Knowledge, Science and Technology for Development Significant increases in food production over the 20th century have contributed to the improvement of many farmers’ livelihoods and to economic growth. However, the distribution of benefits from increased agricultural output has been inequitable. The gains have come with disproportionate environmental, cultural, health and social costs, depleting natural capital and degrading human well-being. Agriculture in the 21st century will have to address crucial challenges in order to reduce global hunger, poverty and environmental harm, including climate change, by maintaining and enhancing environmental and cultural services, while increasing sustainable productivity, and safeguarding nutritional quality and the diversity of food and farming systems.