The global food system faces a triple challenge: ensuring food security for a growing population, tackling widening economic inequality, and mitigating the environmental impact of food production. These three issues are inextricably linked. Unsustainable agricultural practices contribute significantly to climate change through greenhouse gas emissions from livestock, deforestation for farmland expansion, and the use of synthetic fertilizers. Furthermore, these practices often lead to soil degradation and biodiversity loss, undermining the long-term productivity of the land. Economic inequality plays a crucial role in exacerbating food insecurity. Poverty limits access to nutritious food, forcing many to rely on cheaper, often less healthy, processed foods high in calories but low in essential nutrients. This contributes to diet-related diseases, further straining healthcare systems, particularly in developing countries. Meanwhile, industrialized agriculture, while boosting yields, often benefits large corporations and landowners at the expense of smallholder farmers who struggle to compete in global markets. This concentration of power and wealth widens the gap between the rich and the poor, creating a vicious cycle of poverty and food insecurity. Addressing these interconnected challenges requires a multifaceted approach. Promoting sustainable agricultural practices, such as agroforestry, crop diversification, and reduced reliance on chemical inputs, can enhance food security while minimizing environmental damage. Investing in resilient infrastructure, including efficient irrigation systems and improved storage facilities, is crucial for reducing food loss and waste. Furthermore, supporting smallholder farmers through access to credit, training, and fair market prices is essential for empowering them and contributing to a more equitable food system. Policy interventions, including carbon pricing and subsidies for sustainable agriculture, can provide incentives for change. Ultimately, achieving a just and sustainable food system necessitates a holistic approach that recognizes the intricate interplay between economic, environmental, and social factors.
1. According to the passage, which of the following is NOT a major contributor to the environmental impact of food production?
2. The passage argues that economic inequality exacerbates food insecurity primarily by:
3. Which of the following is NOT suggested as a solution to the challenges described in the passage?