Biofuels for cars can help reduce CO 2 emissions, but there are drawbacks to this approach of the environmental problem. The large areas of land needed to grow biofuel crops could threaten food production. Or nature will have to make way. The second generation of biofuels with more efficient fermentation processes are claimed to overcome these problems, but not all scientists are convinced.   read more >>

The International Assessment of Agricultural Science and Technology for Development (IAASTD) is working toward achieving consensus on ways to ensure global food security. In April, in Johannesburg, some of the world’s governments will decide whether to approve the IAASTD report.   read more >>

The opinion article of the December issue of The Broker notes that approximately 1.5 billion family farmers in the world live by producing food for themselves and for cities. In some regions, a policy emphasis on global markets and high-input agriculture undermines farmers' capacity to keep rural landscapes productive. AgriCultures Network partners argue that policy needs to create space for family farmers to realize their possible contribution to a resilient world without hunger: 'Any future needs family farming'.

In December 2009, ILEIA and the AgriCultures Network will run a conference on 'The Future of Family Farming'. This blog will consider the issues raised before, during and after the event. Please feel free to read and comment.