Share of total global land use for agriculture, 1961-2020
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
14 Apr 2019
ย Global agricultural land use has declined in recent years to a share of 36.8% as of 2020. Increased agricultural land use can lead to environmental degradation, including habitat destruction, soil erosion, and biodiversity loss. Afforestation initiatives aimed at combating deforestation and preserving biodiversity have led to the conversion of agricultural land into forested areas. At the same time, rapid urbanization driven by growing populations has encroached upon arable land, transforming them into urban centers and industrial zones. However, technological innovations have emerged, enhancing agricultural productivity while reducing land, water, and fertilizer use. Precision farming, hydroponics, and vertical farming techniques enable higher yields in smaller areas, contributing to this trend.ย
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