• People depend on a wide range of agricultural products /in almost all aspects of life, e.g.,
• nutrition is a key determinant of human health
• provider of energy – fuel-wood and medicinal plants
• fibre
• “Agriculture” is a key economic driver. It is central to:
• individual livelihoods
• poverty alleviation
• nations’ economic growth, e.g., agriculture contributes between 40 and 60% of the GDP of many African countries
• “Agriculture” key to a healthy biosphere![agri.jpg]
• Agriculture is intimately tied to the WEHAB priorities established at the WSSD
• Water – agricultural crops are the largest user of freshwater, forests are critical in effecting groundwater flows, and aquaculture can play a critical role in effecting water quality; health of coastal waters dependent on upstream husbandry
• Energy – fuel-wood is a major source of energy and modern biomass plantations have significant potential to provide clean energy and stimulate economic growth
• Health – nutrition is a key factor in human health
• Biodiversity – agricultural practices play a critical role in either destroying, maintaining or developing biodiversity -- ecological services are critical for sustainable development and planetary health