Follow The Food S01E03 - Generation Farmer

Summary

This documentary explores the urgent challenge of feeding a projected 10 billion people by 2050, highlighting the declining number of young farmers and innovative solutions worldwide. As the average age of farmers rises above 60, initiatives in Japan, the U.S., and Kenya aim to attract youth back to agriculture by addressing barriers like land access and promoting technological advancements. The film emphasizes the importance of making farming appealing through innovation, sustainability, and community impact, ultimately underscoring that the future of food production depends on engaging a new generation of farmers.

Takeaways

• 🌍 The global population is projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, creating immense challenges for food production.
• 👵 The average age of farmers is increasing, particularly in countries like Japan, where the farming workforce is aging rapidly.
• 🚜 Innovative agricultural practices are crucial for improving food production efficiency, including advancements in water use and soil regeneration.
• 🌱 Vertical farming is emerging as a sustainable solution for food production, enabling efficient use of space and resources.
• 💡 Technology is transforming traditional farming through automation and precision agriculture, making it more attractive to younger generations.
• 👩‍🌾 Programs are being implemented worldwide to encourage young people to return to farming, countering urbanization trends.
• 🇯🇵 In Japan, government initiatives aim to ease regulations and provide financial support to attract new farmers and sustain the agricultural sector.
• 🇺🇸 In the United States, organizations like the American Farmland Trust are facilitating land access for aspiring young farmers through matchmaking services.
• 🌱 In Africa, projects like 'Growing Futures' focus on empowering youth with training and market access to enhance their agricultural productivity.
• 📈 Addressing barriers like land affordability and access to capital is essential for fostering a new generation of farmers globally.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the journey from 'field to fork' as discussed in the video?

The journey focuses on transforming agriculture to meet the challenges posed by a growing global population, expected to reach 10 billion by 2050. It explores innovations in farming that enhance water efficiency, soil regeneration, and food production.

What challenges are associated with the aging farming population?

The average age of global farmers is over 60, leading to a decrease in those working in agriculture, as younger individuals migrate to urban areas. This trend threatens the sustainability of farming communities.

What initiatives are being implemented in Japan to encourage younger generations to engage in farming?

The Japanese government is easing regulations and providing subsidies to support young farmers. Initiatives include helping young individuals lease land from retiring farmers and promoting modernization in agriculture.

How did Hiroki Awasa contribute to the revival of his family’s strawberry farm?

After a devastating tsunami in 2011, Hiroki returned to his family's farm, utilizing his IT background to implement advanced technologies in farming, including managing greenhouse environments to improve production.

What role do organizations like the American Farmland Trust play in supporting young farmers in the U.S.?

The American Farmland Trust helps young farmers access land by protecting farmland, advancing sustainable farming practices, and facilitating matches between retiring farmers and aspiring new farmers.

What are some of the barriers young people face when considering a career in farming?

Young individuals often find farming unappealing due to perceptions of it being hard work with low pay, combined with high startup costs and difficulties in accessing land and capital.

How does Farm Africa support young farmers in Kenya?

Farm Africa supports young farmers by providing access to training, cash, markets, and higher productivity seeds. They encourage transitioning to more profitable crops and help facilitate connections to markets.

What innovative approaches are being explored to make farming more attractive to youth?

Innovative approaches include using technology, such as robots for labor-intensive tasks, and developing urban agriculture initiatives that integrate farming into city environments, making it more appealing to a younger demographic.

What impact has certification had on farmers in Western Kenya?

Certification allows farmers to sell their produce at higher prices by meeting quality and sustainability standards, significantly increasing their income and improving their livelihoods.

What is the significance of the 'growing futures' initiative in Kenya?

The 'growing futures' initiative aims to empower young people aged 18-35 to engage in farming by providing training and support, addressing the high unemployment rates in rural areas, and promoting food security.