A literature review explorin sustainableagriculture and foodproduction and how applied geo-information science can be utilized to secure the future of agriculturalproduction the world over.
Abstract This paper begins with a look at agriculturalproduction systems, as well as methods in both developed and developing countries. The paper then explores some components of agriculture management and forecasting as well as foodproduction, security, and early warning systems - and then looks at how geo-information science can improve upon the former by strengthening the latter two. Finally, the paper looks at some of the representative material available vis-a-vis applied geo-information science. A brief conclusion is then offered as to what the paper has ultimately uncovered.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
AgriculturalProduction Systems/Method in both Developed and Developing Countries
Agriculture Management and Forecasting
FoodProduction and Early Warning Systems
Applied Geo-information Science and "Smart" Agriculture:
Food Security/Crop Yield
Improve Economy
Agricultural Planning using Soil Moisture Information
Precision Agriculture Overall Conclusion
From the Paper "Needless to say, precision agriculture may ultimately be the one thing standing between economic and social devastation and renewed hope for the future in many developing nations. Maohua reports that the Government of the People's Republic began aiming for precision agriculture shortly after Chairman Mao's death, and the results have been favorable. According to Maohua, the government's overarching aims are to develop a Chinese agricultural capacity able to feed 1.6 billion Chinese by the middle of the twenty-first century."
Abstract This paper argues for the rights of consumers to know which foodproducts they purchase have been genetically engineered. The writer first explains this concept and examines the potential health hazards that people are afraid of when buying such foods. It also looks at opinion of the food producer who is against such labeling due to unbiased fears amongst the consumer population. The paper also addresses the benefits of bio-engineering in certain fields which helps the production process of many food-groups.
From the Paper "In the twenty-first century, with all the pressing issues at hand, there is bound to be controversy and disagreement. There are many important issues, which face the world today, issues like abortion, the death penalty, gun control, censorship, women in combat and even genetically engineered food. With all the modern scientific advances we are making now, especially in the United States there are positive effects as well as negative effects. Genetically engineered foods are very controversial because there are just as many experts who say they are safe as there are experts who say they are unsafe. In the United States about two thirds of all produce on supermarket shelves is genetically engineered; now the problem we, as a nation, face is awareness. Our most relevant issue is whether it should be required to label these unnatural, possibly unsafe foods. And, the answer is yes; the public has a right to know what they are eating and choose whether they want to eat genetically engineered foods, mainly produce."
Abstract This paper discusses the Moche political organizations and their key attributes. It specifically focuses on their irrigation systems and how they provided leaders with the opportunity to expand their political power base and economy. The paper also looks at how expansion of political control over foodproduction and distribution may have led to an increased reliance on agricultural and terrestrial faunal resources in later periods.
From the Paper "If it is assumed that "in societies organized around a regional political economy, there is differential access to goods, wealth, power and the means of production" (Gumerman 1997), it can probably also be assumed that high-ranking individuals controlled the degree and social organization of labor, tribute, redistribution and trade of foods, and possibly, as Goody (1982) notes, the technology, land, and water required for producing or procuring foods. In addition, the elite should have had the greatest degree of food choice and set themselves apart symbolically by consuming foods valued either for ideological reasons or for rarity. An increased dietary divergence between class groups might even offer indirect evidence of a foundation for political unrest. (Christine White, et. al, 2001)"
This paper examines how the advent of agriculture stopped the evolutionary progression of our bodies and at the same time created a new means to destroy them.
1,110 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 0 sources, 2001, $ 38.95
Abstract The following paper discusses the revolutionary transition from hunting and gathering to foodproduction. The writer details life before agriculture as well as the pros of agriculture and the Neolithic revolution.
From the paper:
?Our bodies and our minds were not designed for this modern world, nor were they designed for the world of agriculture. Besides paranoia, isolation, disease, stratification, and an increase in specialization, agriculture also caused many changes in the physical health of the individuals. Agriculture may provide a somewhat steady source of food but it also provides a limited variety of foods. In the early days of foodproduction the types of foods grown were severely limited, this led to a sense of monotony in the diet.?
Abstract There are several areas of concern for agricultural economists, when they look towards the future. Some of these areas of interest are nutrition & health, the possibility of using foodproducts for other uses than consumption and genetic adaptation of crops. However, three major interests of agricultural economists are the supply of food available, farm productivity and profits and agricultureproduction that will be friendly to the environment. This paper discusses these issues.
From the Paper "The first consideration in food security is the rising temperatures of the world. According to Lester Brown, the "16 warmest years since record-keeping began in 1880 have occurred since 1980. With the three warmest years on record-1998, 2001 and 2003-coming in the last five years, crops are facing unprecedented heat stress" (Brown 1). The heat stress on plants globally impacts evaporation and impedes fertilization, leading to production of fewer crops. Fewer crops will lead to increased prices in food, particularly for countries that import much of their food, principally grain."
Abstract The paper discusses the theme of the "risk society" in respect to foodproduction and distribution. The paper defines the term "risk society" and looks at how decisions are made to ignore risks in order to benefit from the overall convenience gained through using a commercialized food distribution system. The paper discusses the specific risks associated with commercialized agriculture. The paper points out how some consumers avoid these risks through engaging in alternative food acquisition systems, such as purchasing organic products or buying food through community supported agriculture organizations.
Outline:
Introduction
The Theme of the Risk Society
Risk Society and the Rationale for Alternative Food Supplies
Examples of Alternative Food Supplies
Summary
From the Paper "Mainstreamed, commercialized food distribution tends to be a heavily industrialized process. When food is treated like a commodity, it is purposefully marketed towards potential consumers and made available through specific modes of sale, such as supermarkets and restaurants. This process does help facilitate the movement of food through transportation and improves access to food products among those consumers who are in proximity to local points of distribution. However, some social scientists suggest that it is easy to confuse the aspects of convenience with those of safety, especially when it is frequently argued that a centralized system of food distribution enables ease of access for monitoring food product safety through the use of independent government oversight (e.g.: the Food and Drug Administration). In this sense, it can be argued that these perceptions of commercialized food purposefully ignore the risks that are associated with convenient food distribution."
Tags: organic, commercialized, food, distribution, production
Abstract This paper explains that, in their haste to introduce market reforms and efficiencies into their antiquated agricultural systems, many emerging nations have sacrificed their environment and citizens' health in exchange for some well-intentioned but misguided short-term gains in productivity. The author points out that past agricultural practices were based on tradition and spiritual concepts; however, many emerging nations have succeeded in overcoming these constraints through innovative policies and initiatives. The paper stresses that modern western agricultural practices rely heavily on heavy and expensive equipment as well as industrial pesticides and fertilizers to wrench continued high yields from the soil are not readily transferable to many emerging nations.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Review and Discussion
Background and Overview
Existing Agricultural Practices in China Today
Innovative and SustainableAgricultural Practices
Current and Future Trends
What Can Be Done?
Conclusion
From the Paper "Within rural sociology, sustainable agriculture is frequently considered to be a mutually exclusive "competing paradigm" that challenges conventional agriculture on environmental, economic and ideological grounds. As a result, much of the research on identifying sustainable agricultural practices has been focused on understanding the characteristics which differentiate conventional and alternative farmers, as well as the conditions that serve to constrain or facilitate the development of alternative practices and ways of thinking among farmers and agriculture more generally. For example, researchers have examined a variety of farmer and farm attributes such as age, education, orientation to risk, perception of environmental problems, farm size, and profitability; the impact of agricultural markets and prices and state policies, programs and services have also been examined extensively."
Abstract This paper discusses how ecological footprints, effective ecological tools used to help maintain our world, impose many questions in sustaining the earth's life. Charts are included with the paper.
Defining Our Ecological Footprint
Dependency on Nature
Carrying Capacity of Cities and Earth
Comparison between Countries
Natural Capita: Effects on the Earth
Impact of the World Economies
Solutions
From the Paper "The world economy has a great impact on the ecological footprints of the world. Every country wants to obtain economic growth to produce more money. But in doing this, they have to deplete their natural capital, which in turn, is not helping in sustaining this world. As William Rees states, "there is simply not enough on the planet to sustain present international development trends using prevailing technologies" (Westra and Werhane ed. 1998, 115). So something drastic has to be done. As the ecological footprints of humans are already too large for the earth to handle, how can we accommodate the rising materials and rising in population, while trying to sustain the earth. Most analysts agree that it can happen in two ways: through a reduction in the standard of living or through the increase in material and energy efficiency (Westra and Werhane ed. 1998, 115). These two issues also apply problems, through cultural, economic, and social values. Especially in the more developed countries. To lower the standard of living would be outright rejected in the more developed countries such as Canada and the U. S. So indeed, most people agree that "global sustainability is achievable only through large increases in the consumption of goods and services in both poorer and richer countries" (Westra and Werhane ed. 1998, 115). But still a problem arises. There will still be inequity in the growth of the more and less developed countries. It seems the richer get richer and the poorer get poorer. A consensus seems to be emerging though. They say that the needed consumption will work if there is a reduction in the material energy costs of goods and services. "
An examination of basic hotel management food and beverage cost control techniques, including organization, profit planning, sales and break even analysis, menu pricing, food purchasing, storeroom control, foodproduction, beverage and bar control laws.
Abstract The paper shows that the success of hotel's food service component depends in large part on effectively controlling costs, establishing timely budgets, and pricing goods as accurately as possible. It explains how, when properly managed, food service can be a major profit center for hotels today. In conclusion the paper shows that hotels that feature quality food service are well positioned today to reap the benefits of an American public that is increasingly seeking alternatives to fast-food establishments.
Table of Contents:
Overview of Basic Hotel Management Food and Beverage Cost Control Techniques
Organization
Profit Planning
Sales and Break-Even Analyses
Menu Pricing
Food Purchasing
Storeroom Control
FoodProduction Beverage and Bar Control Laws
Food Service
Conclusion
From the Paper "Organization. In virtually every type of organization, responsibility and accountability are inextricably related. According to Loren E. Newland (1997), "This concept is no less true in the lodging industry. For example, the food and beverage manager is responsible for ensuring that quality meals are served to guests. If guests are satisfied, the food and beverage manager receives the credit. If the guests express dissatisfaction with their dining experience, the same manager is subject to criticism" (45)."
Abstract This work examines specific issues in food biotechnology today. The paper discusses which agencies are responsible for regulation of foodproducts and what this regulation involves. Also discussed are the products that food biotechnology has enhanced. The author notes the consumer's potential unease with food biotechnology, and cites education as helping the public overcome this mistrust. The paper includes an extensive literature review.
Outline:
Introduction
Specific Requirements for Food Additive Ingredients
Food Biotechnology is not New
Consumer Doubts
Issues Management Plan
Summary and Conclusion
Bibliography
From the Paper "According to the work of Sally L. McCammon, Science Advisor to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service for the U.S. Department of Agriculture: "If genetically engineered organisms are to gain greater acceptance, decisions that address concerns associated with the application of biotechnology to agriculture must be science based. Science also must be the base by which regulatory officials can sure and build upon credibility, remain current and assure a rational basis for decision-making." (1999) McCammon states that the science-based assessment means that "the review of any particular product is done using scientific criteria relevant to that product. Advances in biotechnology -- being able to determine what has actually happened at the molecular and biochemical levels -- have increased the ability of regulators to scrutinize product safety and the effect of product modification upon safety. The scrutinies of certain products and the rigor by which evaluations are performed have also increased due to biotechnology." (1999)"
Tags:food, biotechnology, consumers, food, industry
Abstract This paper explores the research question: What strategies are needed to assure Garudafood can launch a profitable product into the Chinese marketplace? The author reports that the research design method for this study is in the form of a case study of Garudafood, utilizing a structured interview with the Garudafood marketing manager and a survey of the company's target market. The paper relates that the research concludes that the best channel for the Garudafood products from Indonesia is the indirect channel: importer to retailer to end-consumer. The paper includes pictures, tables, diagrams and surveys.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Background - Snacks Industry in China
Overview of the Problem
Research Question
Research Objectives
Benefits of the Study
Scope of the Study
Definitions of Terms to be Used in the Study
Problem Context
Industry/Organizational Perspective/Implications
Overview of Garudafood and its Products Economic Conditions in China
Advantages and Disadvantages of Investing in China
Provide Tools to Invest in China
Food and Snacks Industries Background
Pros and Cons of Investing in China
Legal Issues or Aspects
Target Audience
Industry Analysis: SWOT Analysis
Marketing Methods
Advertising and Promotion
Opportunities
Snack Characteristics
Review Of Literature
Research Design/Methods
Research Design
The Degree of Research Question Crystallization: Formal Study
Method of Data Collection: Secondary Data
Research Effects of Variables: Ex Post Facto
Purpose of the Study: Descriptive
Time Dimension: Cross-Sectional
Topical Scope: Case Study
Research Environment: Field Setting
Data Collection Methods
Limitations Of Research
Data Analysis And Presentation
Data Presentation
Answers to the Survey Questions
Business Environment in China and Market Opportunities
Benefits and Costs of Investing in China
Summary of the Surveys And Evaluation of the Overall Outcome
Data Analysis
Outcome from the Surveys
Revenue Projections
Break-Even Analysis
Balance Sheet
Balance Sheet
Summary, Conclusions & Recommendations
Summary
The Four Ps
Product Price
Place (Distribution)
Promotion
Product Positioning
Financial Analysis
Competitive Analysis
Marketing Plan
Conclusions
Implementation Plan/Action Plan
Recommendations
Appendix: Target Market Survey, Supermarket Manager Survey, Garudafood Marketing Manager Interview
From the Paper "The price is also very important, because some countries will pay much more for certain things than other countries will. It is important, therefore, to ensure that a country wants what is going to be sold and that it matters enough to it that it will pay a realistic price for the items. In other words, if the product is brought to a new country and marketed well but the price is too high for what the people in that country will pay, the product will not sell.This will happen regardless of how good the product is or how well the marketing is done, and has little to do with whether customers are satisfied with a product."
Abstract This paper explains that sustainability refers to a practice of farming that depends primarily or completely on practices, such as proper planting and rotation of the land without applying materials trucked in from afar to remediate what should never have been damaged in the first place. The author points out that Smit believed that urban food security in the relatively near future could rest partly on locally grown and sold food, with production based on renewable local resources, such as composting in the backyard rather than on fossil fuels. The paper argues that sustainable urban agriculture may become a national defense because even under siege for a very long time, residents of cities would not starve to death.
Table of Contents
"Traditional" Agriculture "Sustainable" Agriculture What's Best for the Future?
From the Paper "Tilman et. al. suggest that sustainable agriculture must be accompanied by advances in energy use, transportation and so on. In short, they do not so much lobby for a scaled-down, friendly, homegrown sort of urban farming Smit outlined; rather, they seem to suggest that more attention should be paid to improving 'big ag.' Still, what they desire for big ag is not entirely without sustainability merit. They suggest multiple cropping systems with crop rotation and intercropping, with two crops grown side by side and simultaneously. That, they note, may improve pest control and water and nutrient efficiency."
Abstract The paper provides statistics on agriculturalproduction within Italy and reveals that the general trend of the Italian agricultural sector is that of stagnation, towards a decline. The paper looks at Italy's land quality and agricultural practices and discusses Italy's implementation of policies aimed to revive and strengthen the sector.
Outline:
Abstract
AgriculturalProduction Land Quality
Agricultural Practices
Policies
Conclusions
From the Paper "Agriculture is one of the oldest activities undergone by the humans in order to sustain life. And it was the primary source of food and income for the majority of individuals across the globe. However, with the industrial and technological revolutions, more and more people begun to work within factories or corporations and less interest was given to agricultural activities. But even so, the technological developments were also adapted and integrated within the processes of growing animals and working the land, agriculture remaining the primary source of foods in the modern society."
Abstract This paper examines several areas of concern for agricultural economists when they look towards the future. Some of these areas of interest are nutrition and health, the possibility of using foodproducts for uses other than consumption, and genetic adaptation of crops. However, the paper highlights three major interests of agricultural economists, the supply of food available, farm productivity and profits, and agricultureproduction that will be friendly to the environment.
From the Paper "The availability of food supplies in the world is a primary interest and concern for agricultural economists. In an article by Lester Brown, he compares our use of the natural resources to the use of an endowment, which we have now started to utilize in addition to the interest and this leads to bankruptcy. He states, "By satisfying our excessive demands through overconsumption of the Earth's natural assets, we are in effect creating a global bubble economy" (Brown 1). Several issues impact the concern of the world's food supply."
Abstract This paper offers a brief review of Eric Schlosser's book "Fast Food Nation". The writer highlights the major issues in the book in 10 points. 1)Fast food is taken for granted in the U.S. 2)Americans spend billions of dollars on fast food. 3)French fries are the most common form. 4)Fries are the most fattening product. 5)The flavor industry is just as much to blame. 6)Fast food creates jobs. 7)Other health problems. 8)Worker safety. 9)Tainted food. 10)Impact on agriculture.
From the Paper "So much has already been said about Fast Food and its negative impact on Americans that you might fail to understand why Eric Schlosser would choose to write a whole book in the subject. Don"t we already know enough" After reading the book, however the answers surprisingly turns out to be an emphatic No. Indeed we know very little about the real fast food industry and the way it carries out is operations. True it adds to obesity problem in the country but do we really know the truth about those French fries that have been criticized widely for their fat content."
