Arable land

Although the service sector can contribute more than 70% of GDP in high-income economies the natural resource sectors, especially agriculture, continues to be the main source of income for many developing countries.

Agriculture not only feeds a growing population, it produces raw materials for industry, such as rubber and timber. Agriculture is also an important source of employment.

Technological progress has contributed to a steady growth in agricultural production since 1980 but this must be maintained without cost to the environment if it is to meet a growing demand for food in a sustainable way.