Small Scale Farmers: The Backbone of Local Food Systems | SoundHeal

Small scale farmers, who account for over 70% of the world's food production, face numerous challenges such as limited access to credit, markets, and technology. Despite these challenges, they play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, promoting sustainable agriculture, and supporting local economies. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), there are over 500 million small scale farmers worldwide, with the majority being women. In the United States, small scale farmers have a vibe score of 80, indicating a high level of cultural energy and community support. However, they also face controversy and tension, particularly with regards to issues like land ownership, water rights, and government subsidies. As the global population is projected to reach 9 billion by 2050, small scale farmers will be critical in meeting the increasing demand for food, with some estimates suggesting that they will need to produce 50% more food than they do currently. The influence of small scale farmers can be seen in the work of organizations like the National Young Farmers Coalition, which has influenced policy changes and supported the growth of local food systems.