Back to the Future: Revisiting Mixed Crop-Livestock Systems

This report examines mixed crop-livestock systems, highlighting their importance for global food security and sustainable agriculture, particularly in developing countries. It discusses the challenges and opportunities for improving these systems to meet growing food demands while addressing resource scarcity and climate change.

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Quick Facts
Report location: source
Language: English
Publisher:

International Livestock Research Institute

Authors: Carlos Seré, Eric Ouma, Mario Herrero, Muthoni Njiru, Stevie Mann. Susan Macmillan
Geographic focus: Global
Time Horizon: 2030

Methods

The research method involved a collaborative effort by scientists from various disciplines and institutions. They used a framework based on the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, coupled with an IMPACT-Water model, to analyze scenarios of change in mixed crop-livestock systems up to 2030. The study considered factors like population growth, urbanization, climate change, consumption patterns, and income changes.

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Key Insights

The research focuses on mixed crop-livestock systems, which are prevalent in developing countries and crucial for food security. These systems, involving small-scale farmers, are expected to play a significant role in feeding the world's growing population. The report analyzes the drivers of change, such as population growth and climate change, and their impacts on agro-ecosystems and human well-being. It suggests that investments in these systems, particularly in the 'extensive frontier' with large yield gaps, could lead to substantial productivity gains. The study also explores the implications of increased demand for livestock products, competition for resources, and the expansion of biofuels on food security.

(Generated with the help of GPT-4)

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