Global area harvested for selected food crops, 1961-2021 (Millions of Hectares)
FAO
12 May 2023
Soybean cultivation has experienced substantial growth, with millions of hectares being added to its harvesting area. This increase is due to soybeans' role as a protein source for both human consumption and animal feed, which is driven by the rising global population and increasing incomes, particularly in developing countries. Soybeans are used in industrial applications such as biodiesel production and lubricants. The increase in demand for renewable energy sources and sustainable products further boosts the demand for soybeans. Globally, the area harvested for food crops has undergone significant changes. As agriculture intensifies to keep up with escalating food demands, the total area harvested has expanded. Innovations in crop varieties, irrigation techniques, and farming practices have enabled more efficient land use, thus enhancing yields per hectare. Hydroponics, a soilless cultivation method, is increasingly adopted as it minimizes reliance on traditional agricultural land and pesticides, and can be implemented in regions with poor soil quality. For instance, FeedMore, a hunger relief organization, has utilized vertical hydroponic container farms to increase food security in Western New York. This method addresses challenges such as land degradation and climate change by operating in controlled environments.
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