World Population Day

On July 11th, 2022, we observe World Population Day and consider the future of humanity. With nearly 8 billion people on the planet today, there is much progress to celebrate. There is also much to examine as economic, climate, and sociopolitical conditions risk falling behind the growing population.

World population statistics:

• The United Nations estimates the global population will reach 9.7 billion by 2050.

Source: United Nations

• In order to feed two billion more people by the year 2050, crop production must at least double.

Source: National Geographic

• Without an increase in funding for agriculture research and development, major field crops are at risk of declining up to 20% in the next 30 years as adjustments to population occur.

Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture

The complexity of issues that come with population is debated from every angle. But one thing is certain: the future of humanity is tightly linked to the future of agriculture.

Population Growth, Farming, and Economic Development

Population growth is achieved thanks to modern medicine, lower mortality rates, and an increase in urbanization. But aspiring toward greater economic development has left nations to reconsider public policies, reproductive rights, wealth distribution, and of course — resources.

Crop production accounts for up to 5% of GDP, and in many developing countries food systems provide income for much of the working class. The World Bank suggests agricultural innovation is the only way to reduce poverty and combat greater threats to resources, such as climate change.

To learn more, browse the resources on the United Nations Population Fund’s (UNFPA) World Population Dashboard by category.

Maintaining Global Resources and Encouraging Sustainability

A rise in population throughout the world’s leading countries will result in greater demand for agricultural productivity. Developing countries have higher fertility rates, fewer reproductive options, and are most likely to face resource scarcity.

Reducing waste and establishing responsible farming practices can significantly free the number of consumable crops globally. But how do we realistically sustain agricultural demand as more people populate the globe?

Both commercial and smallholder farms must leverage technology. This technology must be accessible and affordable.

At Dimitra, we are on a mission to provide just that.

We understand that agriculture technology is essential to farms everywhere. Smallholder farmers in particular support critical population factors: economics, employment, food, energy, and even social and cultural preservation.

Farmers who have access to such technology are equipped to run more sustainably and serve a growing population. Smart farming will reduce costs, prevent risks, increase yields, and manage livestock and crops at every stage of operation.

By partnering with countries working to tackle crucial population issues, we are leading the way in technological advances in the agricultural sector across the globe.

To learn more, visit www.dimitra.io.