Agricultural productivity and food security

Abstract

Land quality varies and determines to a large extent the land use systems adopted in a region or area. There are strong links between biophysical processes and economic choices at local, regional and global levels. Understanding the relationships between land attributes, land degradation, agricultural productivity and food security is a major challenge. In this chapter we address some of the underlying issues, including the influence of changing dietary patterns on food security. We point the way to a better future for agriculture industries and the people who depend on them for their livelihoods in this era of global (not only climate) change.