Desert Locusts

The Desert Locust is wreaking havoc in different parts of the world. We invite you to learn more about the Desert Locust and its impact on agriculture through an interactive story from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). After engaging with the interactive story utilize the discussion points below to guide your conversations with others around the globe. 

A threat from the desert

Discussion Points

• What characteristics or traits make the Desert Locust so invasive to agriculture production?
• Of the characteristics shared which do you feel is the most troubling and why?
• Are you experiencing Desert Locusts in your home region? If so, what is the impact you are seeing? In not, are there other pests that are causing problems to agriculture production and if so, how?
• The FAO has tasked you with combating the increasing threat of the Desert Locust. How would you approach the challenge to mitigate or even eradicate the damage being done?

Canada and China Agriculture Relationship

China and United States trade talks have dominated agricultural trade news in the United States over the last year. But what is happening between Canada and China? This week we take a closer look at an article highlighting trade between Canada and Asian countries. You are encouraged to read through the linked article and utilize the discussion questions below to guide your conversations around the globe.

Canada Sees Asian Demand

Discussion Points

• What is the overall trade relationship and picture between Canada and Asian countries? Be specific.
• What factors have driven the picture you described above?
• How have events around the world impacted this trade relationship?
• How is this trade relationship impacting the rest of the world?

Wheat Rust on the Attack

Over the past year we have seen the spread of old and new wheat rust strains around the world. The linked article below shares information on the area of impact, ramifications, and much more in regards to wheat rust. We encourage you to read the linked article and then utilize the discussion points below to spark conversation around the globe!

Spread of Damaging Wheat Rust Continues 

Discussion Points

• Explain the recent trend of wheat rust around the globe.
• What parts of the world/countries are being impacted?
• Why is this so troubling?
• Why is it so important that we have global collaboration in battling wheat rust (or any challenge facing agriculture for that matter)?
• The article explains the direct impact that wheat rust is having in Asia, Europe, and Africa. What other impacts is or could wheat rust have on global wheat prices and production? How is or could this affect wheat prices and production in your home country?
• Brainstorm ways to control and/or stop the damage being done by wheat rust. Reflect on the resources needed and challenges facing your thoughts and how to meet these respective needed resources and challenges.

Dairy and Asian Nutrition

What hunger and nutrition looks like is changing in Asia. The article linked below takes a look at hunger and nutrition trends and issues in Asia. We encourage you to read the linked article and have conversations with others around the globe utilizing the discussion points provided.

Dairy Potential Ally in Asian Nutrition

Discussion Points

• What has been the trend in regards to hunger in Asia in the last 25 years and why have we seen this?
• How are diets and health changing in Asia and why?
• What is the difference between hunger and malnutrition?
• Why are small dairy farmers in Asia key to battling malnutrition?
• What are additional ways that nutrition can be improved in Asia as well as your local community?
• Often times people will state that "healthy food starts with a healthy soil." What does this statement mean to you?