Biotechnology, which allows the transfer of a gene for a specific trait from one species to another, allows crop improvements that cannot be achieved through traditional breeding methods. Experts assert that biotechnology innovations will triple crop yields without requiring any additional farmland, saving valuable rain forests and animal habitats. In addition to technical innovations, investments in infrastructure to improve storage, transportation and processing will be vital to reducing crop and post-harvest losses. Development of infrastructure also will help small, resource-poor farmers in the third world utilize local marketplaces. Infrastructure improvements not only would allow farmers to transport crops to more people, but also would bring economic benefits to farming communities.
Most experts agree that the world doesn t have the luxury of waiting to act.
By working now to put in place the technology and the infrastructure required to meet future food needs, we can feed the world for centuries to come and improve the quality of life for people worldwide.