2.2 Global Futurism and Megatrends

In the face of declining farmland, it is estimated that the world will need to produce 35-56% more food for a growing population with increasing demands by 2050. The UN estimates the loss of 12 million hectares of productive farmland to desertification and degradation every year.

World fisheries may collapse within 30 years and in a little more than a decade, demand for water will increase 40%, and for energy 50%.

Rare earths and components for technologies will be running out. Research will need to be a priority to protect the quality of life and resources, particularly utilising waste. Australians produce 1.5kg of waste daily compared to the world average 0.7kg. End of life plastics will need to be targeted for recovery and to avoid landfill.

Extinction threats and environmental damage will reach a critical point demanding a response. It is believed that the pressure for positive change will escalate and cannot be ignored.

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