Assessing the Impact of the Green Revolution, 1960 to 2000

Abstract

We summarize the findings of a recently completed study of the productivity impacts of international crop genetic improvement research in developing countries. Over the period 1960 to 2000, international agricultural research centers, in collaboration with national research programs, contributed to the development of "modern varieties" for many crops. These varieties have contributed to large increases in crop production. Productivity gains, however, have been uneven across crops and regions. Consumers generally benefited from declines in food prices. Farmers benefited only where cost reductions exceeded price reductions.

Anthropogenic Effects in Landscapes: Historical Context and Spatial Pattern

“…A tendency towards uniformity (of production systems and crops) on large scales has been observed (Ramade 2005), stimulated, amongst others, by the green revolution (Evanson and Gollin 2003), the sustainability and socioeconomic impacts of which have been criticized. New technologies have been applied, and high levels of energy input have become characteristic for production.…”

Utility of basic research in plant/crop physiology in relation to crop improvement: a review and a personal account

“…This work was stimulated by the earlier discoveries by Asian scientists of the Norin-10 genes controlling dwarfism in wheat germplasm and the identification of similar genotypic characteristics in rice (Chang, 1976;Begonia and Begonia, 2007). The development of many new highyielding short cultivars of cereal crops resistant to pests and diseases, in combination with improved cultural practices, resulted in the so-called Green Revolution of the 1960 s. This breakthrough in agricultural productivity saved millions from famine in several developing countries, although the benefits have not been reaped evenly across countries, regions and crops (Evenson and Gollin, 2003). Consequently, both a Nobel Peace Prize and a Japan Prize were awarded to scientists working at the international research centers in Mexico and Philippines, respectively.…”

“…The current excess of food production in developed countries is a clear testimony of the relevance of the role of basic research in enhancing agricultural productivity. Moreover, the Green Revolution of the 1960s saved some of the highly-populated countries, such as India and Pakistan, from possible famine (Athwal, 1971;Evenson and Gollin, 2003). In view of the anticipated human population growth in the coming few decades, increasing demands for food, feed and fibers must be urgently addressed (Sasson, 1990;Blake, 1994).…”

Genetic modification for disease resistance: a position paper

“…Genetic improvement of crop plants by selective breeding presents a particularly cost-effective and easily adopted means of disease management, as the only action required of the grower is to use appropriate seed or other planting material (Evenson and Gollin 2003).…”