Intensive farming, also known as intensive agriculture, refers to agricultural practices that aim to maximize crop yield and livestock production per unit of land area through high levels of input, such as fertilizers, pesticides, and advanced technologies. This method is characterized by its ability to produce large quantities of food in a relatively small space, making it particularly relevant in regions where land is limited or expensive. Intensive farming practices can significantly increase food production and efficiency, but they may also raise concerns about environmental sustainability and resource depletion.
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Intensive farming is prevalent in urban areas and regions with high population density where maximizing food production is crucial.
It often involves the use of high-yield crop varieties and advanced agricultural technologies to improve efficiency and output.
Environmental concerns related to intensive farming include soil degradation, water pollution from runoff, and loss of biodiversity.
This farming method typically requires significant investment in machinery, infrastructure, and inputs compared to extensive farming practices.
The use of monoculture in intensive farming can lead to increased vulnerability to pests and diseases, necessitating the use of more agrochemicals.
Review Questions
How does intensive farming differ from extensive farming in terms of land use and agricultural output?
Intensive farming focuses on maximizing output per unit of land through high inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, resulting in higher yields from smaller areas. In contrast, extensive farming utilizes larger areas with lower input levels, leading to lower overall productivity. Intensive methods allow for more efficient use of limited land resources, particularly important in densely populated regions.
Discuss the implications of the Green Revolution on intensive farming practices and food security.
The Green Revolution significantly transformed intensive farming by introducing high-yield crop varieties and modern agricultural techniques, which increased food production worldwide. This surge in agricultural output contributed to enhanced food security in many developing countries by reducing hunger and malnutrition. However, it also raised concerns about reliance on agrochemicals and the environmental impacts of such intensive practices.
Evaluate the sustainability of intensive farming methods in light of current global food demands and environmental challenges.
While intensive farming methods have been successful in boosting food production to meet global demands, their sustainability is increasingly questioned due to environmental degradation and resource depletion. Issues such as soil erosion, water scarcity, and chemical runoff highlight the need for more sustainable practices that balance productivity with ecological health. Future agricultural strategies may require integrating technology with sustainable practices to ensure food security while minimizing environmental impact.
The agricultural practice of growing a single crop species over a wide area for several consecutive years, often associated with intensive farming due to its efficiency.
A period during the mid-20th century when agricultural production increased dramatically due to the adoption of new technologies, including high-yield crop varieties and chemical fertilizers.
Agrochemical: Chemical products used in agriculture, such as fertilizers and pesticides, that are commonly employed in intensive farming to enhance productivity.