001 - Degradation from raw material production - Part 1

Syllabus Point

Identify (AO1) the effects of agro-industrialization and changes in international production and consumption on the physical environment.

Key Terminology

  • Identify
  • Discuss
  • Examine
  • Agro-industrialization
  • Food miles
  • Green Revolution

Define the words above using the command word posters in the classroom, your 'Geography Course Companion' by Nagle and Cooke and the links provided.

Activity One - Watch

Watch the clip below and answer the following questions:

  1. Describe the effects that agro-industrialisation has had on dairy farming.
  2. What are the key characteristics of agro-business?
  3. From what you have studied so far where do you think that agro-business is prevalent?
  4. How has agro-industrialisation impacted international production and consumption?
  5. What impact has this production had on the environment?

Activity Two - Analysis

The main aspect of this syllabus point is to look at how agro-industrialisation has impacted the environment. Using the text book 'Geography for the IB Diploma. Global Interactions' by Guinness Pages 94-99 make notes on how intensive farming impacts the environment. Consider the following points as you make the notes:

  1. What are the key areas of devastation?
  2. How does agro-business impact greenhouse emissions? Use the USA as an example - don't forget to include figures.
  3. How does the production of meat impact the environment?
  4. What is the vertical food-chain integration?
  5. What concerns do people have about GM food?
  6. What is the environmental impact of the Green Revolution?
  7. Can organic farming be a 'cure' to GM food and agro-industrialisation?
  8. How does food waster and food packaging impact the environment?

Activity Three - Watch

Copy and complete the table below and as we watch the documentary 'From Crop to Shop - Jimmy's Supermarket Secrets'.

Exam Style Question

Examine the environmental impact of growing the same crops all year around. (10 marks)