Innovative Management of Irrigation Systems to Support Feeding Sustainably 10 Billion People by 2050

ABSTRACT

This paper examines irrigation as a critical component of Agricultural Water Management (AWM) needed to sustainably feed a projected global population of 10 billion people by 2050. AWM spans a continuum from rainfed agriculture to irrigation. Irrigation is the practice that uses freshwater/blue water to supply water requirements not satisfied by rainfall to grow crops and trees. Irrigation is estimated to globally produce about 40% of the world's food and fodder output and feed an estimated 8 billion people. The primary goal of irrigation is to support crops with the water they need to grow to their potential. Many existing irrigation schemes operate below their potential or have ceased functioning. This paper examines how innovative technical, governance and financial practices can improve agricultural productivity, enabling existing systems to produce sufficient food for 2050. The paper suggests a focus on three pillars: water accounting and data driven water allocation, performance of irrigation schemes and improving financing of the irrigation sector. By focusing on these operational improvements within this sector, the paper offers actionable recommendations for enhancing irrigation system productivity, accountability and resilience—essential components for sustainably feeding a growing global population and for positioning irrigation as a sunrise industry.