Closing yield gaps through nutrient and water management

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Environmental Science
• Global Food Security

Background:

• Humanity faces the challenge of meeting doubled food demand by 2050 amid environmental degradation from agriculture.
• Sustainable intensification is proposed to increase yields and decrease environmental impacts, but its global implications are unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess global intensification prospects by closing yield gaps.
• To analyze spatial patterns of agricultural management and yield limitations.
• To identify necessary management changes for increased yields.

Main Methods:

• Global-scale assessment of yield gaps (difference between observed and attainable yields).
• Analysis of factors controlling yield variability: fertilizer use, irrigation, and climate.
• Evaluation of management changes needed for yield gap closure.

Main Results:

• Closing yield gaps could increase global production by 45%–70% for most crops.
• Yield variability is primarily driven by fertilizer, irrigation, and climate.
• Significant reductions in environmental impact are possible by eliminating nutrient overuse, enabling ~30% cereal production increase.

Conclusions:

• Meeting future food security and sustainability goals is achievable through significant changes in nutrient and water management.
• Sustainable intensification requires tailored regional management strategies to close yield gaps effectively.