Journey 2050 Lesson 1: Sustainable Agriculture | Self-Guided Experience

Summary

The Journey 2050 program addresses the critical challenge of sustainably feeding nearly 10 billion people by 2050. Through interactive lessons and a farming simulation game, students explore the concepts of sustainable agriculture, resource management, and the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental factors. Key topics include the projected population growth, the need for a significant increase in food production, and the importance of understanding limiting factors and ripple effects in farming decisions. This engaging self-guided experience encourages learners to think critically about the future of agriculture and its vital role in global sustainability.

Takeaways

• 🌍 The Journey 2050 program addresses how to sustainably feed nearly 10 billion people by 2050.
• 👩‍🌾 The program includes seven lessons and an interactive farming simulation game set in different countries.
• 📈 Farmers will need to produce 60-70% more food by 2050 on the same or less land to meet growing demands.
• 💵 Understanding the difference between a million and a billion helps grasp the scale of global population growth.
• 🚰 In addition to food, increased population will require more water, housing, jobs, and medical resources.
• 🌱 Sustainable agriculture is crucial for ensuring a stable food supply and managing natural resources.
• 📊 The sustainability barrel concept highlights the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental factors.
• 🌊 Small actions can have significant ripple effects on local economies and community resources.
• 🧮 Participants are encouraged to reflect on their future roles in a world with nearly 10 billion people.
• 🎮 The Journey 2050 game allows players to make decisions and see their impact on sustainable farming.

Q & A

What is the main objective of the Journey 2050 program?

The main objective is to investigate how to sustainably feed nearly 10 billion people by the year 2050.

How many lessons are included in the Journey 2050 program?

The Journey 2050 program includes seven lessons, each associated with a farming simulation game.

What are the key components needed to participate in the Journey 2050 self-guided experience?

Participants need the self-guided experience handout for each lesson, internet access, and a device like a phone, tablet, or iPad to play the game.

What concept is introduced to help students understand large numbers?

Students are introduced to a scenario that compares spending $1,000 daily to reach $1 million versus $1 billion, illustrating the vast difference in scale.

What is the projected world population by 2050?

The world population is projected to be nearly 10 billion by 2050.

What percentage increase in food production is predicted to be necessary to feed the growing population?

It is predicted that farmers will need to produce 60 to 70% more food than is currently produced today.

What does the sustainability barrel represent?

The sustainability barrel represents various factors influencing sustainable agricultural production, including economic, social, and environmental factors.

What are some of the ripple effects of a successful crop harvest by farmers?

Ripple effects include improved local economies, increased job opportunities, better access to education and healthcare, and enhanced investment in farming technology.

Why is 2050 a significant year in the context of global population growth?

2050 is significant because it marks the year when the world population is expected to reach nearly 10 billion, necessitating substantial increases in food production and resource management.

How does the program suggest addressing the challenges of sustainable agriculture?

The program suggests using resources sustainably to ensure availability for future generations while addressing the need to produce significantly more food.