Going Green

Monday, December 17, 2007

Issues of Soaring Food Prices

It is a complex issue.

UN warns on soaring food prices

The soaring cost of food is threatening millions of people in poor countries, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has warned.

Food prices have risen an unprecedented 40% in the last year and many nations may be unable to cope, the agency says.

It is calling for...(complete article here).

Fuel prices, improving economies in many countries, natural climate issues, population growth, plant genetics, insects, plant diseases and wars all affect food availability. Even the decimating AIDS pandemic in Africa affects food availability because of its impact on the ability and stamina of those who might be in the workforce. Fuel prices may be one of the biggest issues because the food often is not produced where it is needed and must be transported. Ultimately prices globally are determined by supply and demand. Supply and demand sometimes become skewed by government policies. There is no simplistic answer.

No comments: