Final answer:
To accommodate the estimated global population growth in 2050, a 119% increase in edible crops, a 58% increase in milk production, and a 73% increase in meat production are projected, assuming the continuation of current practices. However, the sustainable increase in food production requires transformative changes including reducing the use of edible crops to feed animals and developing environmentally and economically sustainable practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
In order to accommodate the estimated global population growth in 2050, a significant increase in food production is anticipated. According to Berners-Lee et al., if society continues with its current diet trajectory, an estimated 119% increase in edible crops grown will be required by 2050. Alongside this, it is expected that milk production will need to increase by 58% and meat production by 73% (Chai et al.).
It is important to note that these projections assume the continuation of current policies and practices in food production. For instance, as Berners-Lee et al. point out, currently 34% of human-edible crops are used to feed animals, which reduces the overall calorie and protein supplies available to humans. As such, future food production not only needs to increase in volume, but also transform into systems that are nutritionally adequate, environmentally sustainable, and economically affordable.
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