There's a well-researched and -written article in Macleans by Charles Gillis on the factors that are setting up a global food shortage. An inopportune use of corn and grains for biofuel, global warming, and the increased consumption from China's citizens are all contributing to greater demand and dwindling supplies. The abroad result is depleting food reserves in Africa and other poor regions, while more locally, the prices of bread, cereals, and meat have risen sharply.
I would also add the overconsumption of North Americans as an issue, especially of meat. (It takes a large amount of water and grains to feed cattle and poultry. I've already reduced my meat content and this article spurns me to go even more carnivo-less.) There is a good argument here for scaling back on our food consumption. As well, choosing to eat locally would help because it reduces the transport costs of food: oil is at a record high and the costs are passed along.
What will it take for people to pull back on food and oil consumption?
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