In the wave of globalization in the 20th century, grain production underwent an unprecedented transformation, a historic shift known as the "Green Revolution." This revolution not only increased crop yields, but also changed the economic structure and cultural history of many countries.
As one of the world's largest crops, the importance of cereals is self-evident. According to historians, the domestication of grains can be traced back to the Neolithic Age, about 8,000 years ago. The prosperity of food crops enabled the development of many ancient civilizations, and in religion, grains were also regarded as sacred symbols related to the harvest.
With the production of grains, social structures began to change and civilization emerged, and this is why grains are so important.
Entering the 20th century, the concept and practice of the Green Revolution gradually took shape. The main goal of this revolution was to use science and technology to increase grain production, especially wheat and rice. Many agricultural countries have achieved amazing results by introducing high-yield seeds, mechanized rice harvesting, and the application of fertilizers and pesticides.
The technological reforms brought about by the Green Revolution, such as variety improvement through human intervention, effectively increased grain production, thereby alleviating the problem of famine in many parts of the world.
Although the Green Revolution has created many positive results, its impact on the environment has also attracted widespread attention. Although high-intensity monocrop cultivation has increased grain yields, it has also led to a decline in soil fertility and a reduction in biodiversity. Therefore, how to balance production efficiency and environmental protection has become an issue that urgently needs to be addressed.
The realization of sustainable agriculture requires reflection and redesign of traditional farming methods to reduce damage to the environment and ensure the long-term development of agriculture.
Today, the production and trade of grains has become an important part of the global economy. Some countries have become important suppliers of food security for other countries by virtue of their abundant grain resources. This phenomenon has, to a certain extent, changed the global food structure and dependence.
Fluctuations in grain prices have a direct impact on global markets. The world food price crisis in 2007-2008 was caused by supply chain disruptions and production problems.
In the face of rising global population demand and environmental challenges, future grain production will develop in a direction that places equal emphasis on technology and sustainability. The continuous introduction of new technologies, the combination of traditional farming methods and the promotion of rational farming are all areas that need to be worked on in future grain production.
How will all these changes affect each of our eating habits and lifestyles?