The world’s food system is facing a catastrophic crisis that threatens the planet’s very survival. As the global population continues to grow, our demand for calories and protein is increasing exponentially, putting immense pressure on the environment. Agriculture accounts for nearly 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with deforestation and livestock production being major contributors.
According to journalist Michael Grunwald’s new book “We Are Eating the Earth,” the agricultural sector will need to expand by 50% in the next 25 years to feed a growing population of 10 billion people. However, this is an impossible task given the current state of food production, which relies heavily on land-intensive methods that are not only environmentally destructive but also unsustainable.
Grunwald’s book highlights the limitations of various solutions touted by environmentalists and farmers, including carbon farming, vertical farming, and plant-based meat. These alternatives have failed to gain traction in the market, and many have been met with skepticism or even outright rejection.
Despite the bleak outlook, Grunwald remains optimistic that human ingenuity can find a way out of this crisis. He points to the rapid advancements in renewable energy as an example of how remarkable progress can be made when people come together to tackle complex problems.
Grunwald suggests that incentives and new technologies can help farmers grow more food on less land, reduce waste, and promote environmentally friendly practices. The key is to find innovative solutions that balance human needs with the planet’s limited resources.
Ultimately, the food crisis and climate change are intertwined issues that require a concerted effort from governments, farmers, and individuals alike. As Grunwald notes, “we are good at inventing stuff” and with determination, creativity, and a willingness to adapt, we can find a way to feed the world without frying it.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/aug/14/we-are-eating-the-earth-book-climate