This agricultural practice involves maximizing crop yield on a smaller area of land through substantial inputs of labor, capital, and technology. Characterized by high levels of fertilization, pesticide use, and often irrigation, the objective is to obtain the greatest possible output per unit of land. A prime example includes market gardening in California, where valuable produce is grown in concentrated areas using specialized techniques to cater to urban populations.
This method is vital for ensuring food security, particularly in densely populated regions where land is a scarce resource. Historically, it has enabled societies to sustain larger populations than would be possible with more extensive farming techniques. The resulting increased agricultural productivity can boost economies and generate export revenue. However, concerns exist regarding potential environmental degradation due to overuse of chemical inputs, water depletion, and loss of biodiversity.
