Our Research in Print: Understanding Farm Size at a Global Scale [20.02.26]
A new paper by lab member Julie Fortin uncovers the regional variability hidden behind national farm size averages
We are pleased to share a new publication, “Global dataset on mean farm size reveals important subnational variability,” by Julie Fortin, together with Larissa Jarvis, Christian Levers, Navin Ramankutty, and Verena Seufert, in the journal Environmental Research: Food Systems.
Farm size shapes our food systems - but what do we know about the spatial distribution of farm sizes?
Farm size is correlated with yields, labour, biodiversity outcomes, and food security. Yet most global datasets rely on national averages — which can hide major differences within countries.
In a newly published paper, Julie Fortin presents the first entirely empirical global dataset of mean farm size at predominantly subnational level, harmonizing census data at the smallest administrative scale available for 200 countries.
When comparing subnational data to national averages, the differences are striking — especially in countries with strong regional contrasts.
The findings highlight why spatial detail matters for research on land systems, smallholder agriculture, and rural development.
This dataset opens new possibilities for more precise, spatially explicit analyses of agricultural systems worldwide.
Congratulations to Julie and the team on this impressive global effort!
