2021 Articles

Implications of new technologies for future food supply systems

Asseng, S.; Palm, C. A.; Anderson, J. L.; Fresco, L.; Sanchez, P. A.; Asche, F.; Garlock, T. M.; Fanzo, Jessica C.; Smith, M. D.; Knapp, G.; Jarvis, A.; Adesogan, A.; Capua, I.; Hoogenboom, G.; Despommier, D. D.; Conti, L.; Garrett, K. A.

The combination of advances in knowledge, technology, changes in consumer preference and low cost of manufacturing is accelerating the next technology revolution in crop, livestock and fish production systems. This will have major implications for how, where and by whom food will be produced in the future. This next technology revolution could benefit the producer through substantial improvements in resource use and profitability, but also the environment through reduced externalities. The consumer will ultimately benefit through more nutritious, safe and affordable food diversity, which in turn will also contribute to the acceleration of the next technology. It will create new opportunities in achieving progress towards many of the Sustainable Development Goals, but it will require early recognition of trends and impact, public research and policy guidance to avoid negative trade-offs. Unfortunately, the quantitative predictability of future impacts will remain low and uncertain, while new chocks with unexpected consequences will continue to interrupt current and future outcomes. However, there is a continuing need for improving the predictability of shocks to future food systems especially for ex-ante assessment for policy and planning.