(Module 37) The Green Revolution

What was the Green Revolution?

The Green Revolution was a movement supported by the US that aimed to develop high-yield seed varieties and agricultural technologies to increase the productivity of cereal crops in less developed countries.

What are high-yield seeds and where were they first developed?

High-yield seeds are genetically improved plants that produce greater quantities of crop per acre. They were first developed for wheat in Mexico in the early 1940s.

What are some environmental impacts of the Green Revolution?

The Green Revolution led to pollution of groundwater, rivers, and streams due to increased use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, as well as issues of soil salinization and contamination.

Define crossbreeding.

Crossbreeding is the act of mixing different species or varieties of plants and animals to produce hybrids.

What is double cropping?

Double cropping is the practice of planting another crop on the same plot of land as soon as the first crop has been harvested.

What were some positive outcomes of the Green Revolution?

Increased crop productivity, multicropping, decreased world hunger, and more efficient use of agricultural land.

What are some negative consequences of the Green Revolution?

Higher farming expenses, loss of subsistence farming and plant diversity, and environmental costs such as pollution.

What does the term 'endemic' refer to?

Endemic refers to species that are native to or characteristic of a certain environment.

What is soil salinization?

Soil salinization is the concentration of dissolved salts in the soil, often resulting from poor irrigation practices.