IGCSE Geography - Food Production Notes
Detailed Food Production Notes
Food Production - IGCSE Geography Detailed Notes
1. Introduction to Food Production
Food production is the process of growing crops and raising livestock for human consumption. It is
influenced by various physical and human factors, and the efficiency and sustainability of this
process are critical for ensuring food security.
2. Physical and Human Factors Affecting Food Production
- Climate: Temperature, rainfall, and sunshine are essential for crop growth. For example, rice
requires heavy rainfall and warm temperatures.
- Soil: Nutrient-rich, well-drained soils are ideal for crop farming.
- Relief: Flat or gently sloping land is easier to farm.
- Water Supply: Access to irrigation is essential in arid areas.
- Technology: Use of tractors, irrigation systems, and biotechnology enhances productivity.
- Labour: Availability of skilled and unskilled workers.
- Capital: Investment in seeds, fertilizers, equipment.
- Markets: Proximity to markets influences what is produced.
3. Types of Farming
- Subsistence Farming: Producing just enough food for the farmer's family.
- Commercial Farming: Growing food for sale and profit.
- Arable Farming: Growing crops such as wheat, maize, or rice.
- Pastoral Farming: Rearing animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats.
IGCSE Geography - Food Production Notes
- Mixed Farming: Combination of crop growing and livestock rearing.
- Intensive Farming: High inputs (labor, capital) for high yield on small land.
- Extensive Farming: Low inputs and low yield on large land area.
4. Case Studies
- Intensive rice farming in the Ganges Delta (India/Bangladesh).
- Commercial wheat farming in the Canadian Prairies.
- Cattle ranching in Brazil.
- Mixed farming in the UK.
5. The Green Revolution
The Green Revolution was a period (1940s-1960s) during which agriculture in developing countries
transformed due to the introduction of high-yielding varieties (HYVs), irrigation, fertilizers, and
pesticides.
Pros:
- Increased crop yields (e.g., wheat in India tripled).
- Reduction in famine and food shortages.
- Boosted rural incomes and employment.
- Encouraged the development of agro-industries.
Cons:
- Environmental degradation (overuse of water, chemical runoff).
- Increased income inequality (rich farmers benefited more).
- Loss of biodiversity due to monocultures.
IGCSE Geography - Food Production Notes
- Health issues from pesticide exposure.
6. Food Shortages
Causes:
- Natural disasters: droughts, floods, and cyclones destroy crops.
- Conflict and war: disrupt farming and supply chains.
- Poverty: lack of access to land and resources.
- Climate change: unpredictable weather patterns.
- Overpopulation: demand exceeds supply.
Effects:
- Malnutrition and starvation.
- Increased mortality rates.
- Migration and displacement.
- Economic decline due to poor workforce health.
- Political instability and unrest.
7. Solutions to Food Shortages
- Improve infrastructure: better roads and storage.
- Investment in irrigation and water conservation.
- Use of drought-resistant and high-yield crops.
- Education and training for farmers.
- Government subsidies and support programs.
- International aid and cooperation.
IGCSE Geography - Food Production Notes
8. Environmental and Social Impacts of Food Production
Environmental:
- Deforestation to clear land for farming.
- Soil erosion and nutrient depletion.
- Pollution from fertilizers and pesticides.
- Loss of natural habitats and biodiversity.
Social:
- Displacement of traditional communities.
- Health impacts from agrochemicals.
- Changes in rural society and employment patterns.
9. Sustainable Agriculture
- Organic Farming: Avoids synthetic chemicals.
- Permaculture: Works with natural ecosystems.
- Agroforestry: Combines crops with tree planting.
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Uses biological control.
- Conservation Tillage: Reduces soil erosion.
10. Practice Exam Questions
1. Explain the difference between intensive and extensive farming. [4 marks]
2. Using examples, describe the human factors that influence food production. [5 marks]
3. What is the Green Revolution? Discuss its advantages and disadvantages. [6 marks]
4. Explain the main causes of food shortages in LICs. [5 marks]
5. Describe how sustainable farming practices can help address food security. [6 marks]
IGCSE Geography - Food Production Notes
6. With reference to a case study, describe how commercial farming affects the environment. [7
marks]
Factors Affecting Food Production - Diagram
