This Brief examines the sustainability of energy use in global food
production and processing. The nexus between food, water, and energy are
explored against a background of climate change. Current efforts to
reduce the energy intensity of food and increase sustainability are
explored. Food waste and its impact on energy is covered, including
regional variations and nutrient recycling methods. Energy Use in Global
Food Production uses case studies to illustrate how food production and
processing is a significant contributor to anthropogenic climate change.
Modern industrial agriculture uses fossil fuel to grow crops and produce
fertilizers, pesticides and farm machinery. Additional energy is used to
transport and process food at a primary and secondary level. With the
median forecast for global population at more than 9 billion by 2030, a
30% increase over the current population, energy efficient food
processing will be of increasing importance. This Brief provides an
overview of current energy efficient food processing methods looks at
the way forward as demands continue to increase.