Global food and water crisis expected by 2050

The world could face a food and water crisis by as early as 2050 if key countries don’t review their current food policies, according to Major General John Hartley AO, CEO of Future Directions International (FDI). At the 20th Australian HACCP Conference in August, Hartley will discuss in depth how a growing population, increasing demand for fresh water and increasing loss of arable land could result in a global food and water crisis by 2050.

At the Melbourne event, hosted by SAI Global, Hartley will outline Australia’s role in helping to alleviate the possible crisis by altering our current policy.

“We urgently need more produce to be grown here, in addition to a clarified food policy that incorporates reasons why Australia needs a viable agricultural and pastoral sector,” Hartley said. “Different policy and regulatory areas related to food should be brought together.”

Hartley’s recommended policy changes include incorporating a target to feed Australia’s projected population, recognition of the security and social implications of immigrants, assurance of economic advantages to Australia, a reflection of the nation’s relative wealth and a stronger focus on Australia’s north.

“We need an analysis of the northern land’s size, challenges of soil and its access to water. Major investment into this area could potentially increase productivity in cattle, sugar and other crops within Australia,” said Hartley.

Other speakers at the event include Greg Warren, Foodbank Australia GM, who will be discussing quality food supply in times of individual and community crisis, and Bill McBride, FoodLink Management Services MD (and Safe Quality Food Institute chairman), who will provide an update on the work of the Global Food Safety Initiative.

The 20th Australian HACCP Conference will be held at Pier Docklands, Melbourne, on 27-29 August 2013.