Intensive Farming

Definition of Intensive Farming

Intensive farming is an agricultural production system that maximises output from a limited area of land through high levels of inputs, technology, and management control. It is used in both crop and livestock production and typically involves concentrated use of labour, feed, fertilisers, water, and capital to achieve high yields or productivity per unit area.

In modern agriculture, intensive farming is characterised by precision management, controlled environments, and standardised practices designed to increase efficiency and reduce production costs.

Why Intensive Farming Matters

Intensive farming matters because it plays a key role in meeting global food demand, particularly in regions with limited land availability. Its significance includes:

• High productivity per hectare or per animal

• Efficient use of land resources

• Consistent food supply and market stability

• Economic efficiency and scalability

• Integration of technology and data-driven management

At the same time, intensive farming raises important considerations around environmental impact, animal welfare, and long-term sustainability, making it central to agricultural policy and debate.

Key Characteristics of Intensive Farming

• High Input Use – Fertilisers, feeds, energy, and water applied at concentrated levels

• Specialised Production Systems – Focus on specific crops or livestock types

• Controlled Conditions – Use of housing, irrigation, or climate control

• Advanced Technology – Automation, sensors, and precision agriculture tools

• Standardised Practices – Uniform methods to optimise output

• High Stocking or Planting Density – Maximising production per unit area

Related Terms

• Factory Farming

• Livestock Management

• Precision Agriculture

• Monoculture

• Sustainable Agriculture

• Crop Protection

Useful Resources on Intensive Farming

Explore these authoritative resources to learn more about intensive agricultural systems, productivity, and sustainability challenges:

• FAO – Livestock Production Systems– Overview of intensive and extensive livestock models.

• Compassion in World Farming- Campaign and reasons to end factory farming.

• Our World in Data – Meat, Dairy and Farming Systems– Data on production efficiency and environmental trade-offs.

• Gov.UK – Intensive Farming and Animal Welfare (UK)– UK regulations and guidance.

• European Commission – Animal Welfare and Farming Systems– EU policy on intensive livestock systems.

• USDA – Animal Production and Management– Research and guidance on large-scale livestock systems.

• AGRIS – Livestock Systems Research Database– Peer-reviewed studies on farming models.

• World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)– Welfare standards applicable to intensive systems.

• World Animal Protection- tackling the root causes of animal exploitation and abuse.

• World Bank – Agricultural Productivity and Sustainability – Economic perspectives on intensification.