Vienna-based researchers have found that industrial farming is not necessary, but rather serves to optimize profits. The study is part of the emerging field of land system research, which examines the interactions between natural parameters and humans. The research focuses on the impact of land use intensity on global food security. The study found that while increasing yields per area may seem like a solution to avoid expanding agricultural land, it actually leads to greater environmental damage. Additionally, intensive farming practices lead to increased consumption, which negates any benefits gained from higher yields. The study also found that industrial farming competes with human nutrition, as protein-rich feed like soy is used to produce animal products instead of being used for human consumption. The researchers argue that reducing meat consumption and using soy for human consumption would reduce environmental damage and improve food security.
The study’s findings challenge the notion that industrial farming is necessary for food security. The researchers argue that intensive farming practices lead to greater environmental damage and compete with human nutrition. The study also highlights the need to reduce meat consumption and use soy for human consumption to improve food security and reduce environmental damage. The findings have implications for policymakers and consumers alike, as they suggest that a shift away from industrial farming practices is necessary to ensure a sustainable food system.
