Food Supply at Risk?

Our food system is a complicated and interconnected web of producers, suppliers, transporters, and consumers. The linked story from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations explores our food systems and potential risks and protections. We encourage you to explore the linked story and engage with others around the globe utilizing the discussion points provided. 

Is our food supply at risk? 

Discussion Points

• What are the three main components of the agri-food system and how do they interact?
• Diversity is mentioned as a key strategy to protect our food systems. What does this look like? Do you see diversity in your food systems locally and around the world (explain)?
• Using the interactive table in the story, what would happen if incomes were reduced by one-third? Consider your home area and other areas around the globe.
• Towards the end of the story several strategies are shared to protect food systems. Rank the strategies shared from most important to least important and share your reasoning. 

Lao PDR Rice and Fish Production

Rice and fish may or may not be common agricultural commodities produced in your home region. Whether rice and fish production are common in your area or not there is a great chance that we all can reflect and learn from farmers in Lao PDR (Lao People's Democratic Republic). We encourage you to explore the linked story below and utilize the discussion points to guide your conversations around the globe. 

Tapping into aquatic resources to lift rice production

Discussion Points

• The following quote was shared in the article. "In the past we used to farm in harmony with the environment. But now we have more pests, and we do not know how to cope with them." Do you agree with this statement? Would you respond differently in different parts of the world? What about your home region?
• The linked story mentions that diversification in agricultural production is good for the environment and helps reduce poverty. Why is this the case in Lao PDR? Do you think agriculture in your region could benefit from an increase in diversification? Explain your reasoning.
• The story shares how farmers benefited from sharing information. Do you see those in agriculture in your home area sharing data the way farmers have in Lao PDR? 
• What are your final thoughts regarding this global agriculture story? What are your main take-a-ways?