CropLife Asia marks World Food Day

CropLife Asia acknowledged World Food Day by bringing awareness to the contributions farmers are making through technology to combat hunger around the globe.

Although the Food and Agriculture Organization estimates world hunger in the developing world has fallen by half since 1990, there are still about 800 million people who do not have enough food.

"World Food Day is an opportunity to not only recognize the progress that's been made globally in the battle against hunger, but to also sound the call to continue our efforts in meeting this challenge that impacts far too many," Siang Hee Tan, executive director of CropLife Asia, said. "The plant science industry plays a pivotal role in enabling farmers as they adapt to the challenges of modern agriculture. With more people to feed, less water and arable land available, the threat of pests and disease, and a changing climate to confront, farmers need our help more than ever. The technological advancements of plant science are a critical tool in our collective efforts to eliminate food insecurity and hunger in Asia and around the world."

Growers will need to produce approximately 70 percent more food in 2050 than they do now in order to feed people around the globe. Research and development of plant biotechnology and crop protection will help growers produce enough food for the population to not only survive, but also thrive.