Population Growth, Crop Production, and Fertilizer Use Since 1960

What We're Showing

Since 1960, the world’s demand for crops has skyrocketed, fueled by a booming population that now exceeds 8 billion, rising incomes, and expanding uses for agricultural products. 

This line graph, created in partnership with BHP, charts the trends of population growth, crop production, and potash fertilizer use over six decades.

Key Takeaways

• Population growth, crop production, and fertilizer demand are closely linked, but their growth rates differ.
• BHP's analysis reveals that potash demand has significantly outpaced both crop production and population growth since 1960, highlighting its essential role in feeding a growing global population.