Summary
Food security involves ensuring that all people have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food. Challenges include natural factors like drought and human factors such as poverty and conflict.
- Drought — extended periods of low rainfall reducing crop yields and livestock productivity. Example: Severe in sub-Saharan Africa.
- Floods — excessive rainfall destroying crops and eroding topsoil. Example: Damages agricultural infrastructure.
- Climate Change — rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall patterns disrupting growing seasons. Example: Increased frequency of extreme weather events.
- Soil Infertility — nutrient-depleted soils reducing agricultural productivity. Example: Common in heavily farmed areas.
- Population Growth — rapid increase creating greater demand for food. Example: Global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050.
- Poverty — low incomes preventing farmers from affording improved seeds or irrigation systems. Example: Limits access to education about modern farming techniques.
- Conflict and War — armed conflicts disrupting farming activities and food distribution. Example: Farmers unable to plant or harvest crops during fighting.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Food Security
- Drought
- Soil Infertility
Common Confusions
- Confusing natural factors with human factors affecting food supply
- Misunderstanding the role of biotechnology in food production
Typical Exam Questions
- What are two natural factors that negatively affect food supply? Drought and soil infertility.
- How does population growth impact food security? Increases demand for food, outpacing production capacity.
- What is the role of irrigation in increasing food supply? Allows cultivation in arid regions and during dry seasons.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Distinguishing between natural and human factors affecting food supply
- Understanding the impacts of food insecurity on different countries
- Evaluating strategies to increase food supply and their sustainability