Irrigation as competitive factor in agriculture.

摘要

The availability of irrigation water plays an important role in the development of agricultural policies and high quality productivity. This paper examines the evolution of consumers demand for food products, the European integration and the liberalization of world trade, the environmental policies regarding water quality, aspects of the 'green revolution', the effect of competition in agriculture and the development of new irrigation systems. A case study is briefly presented discussing the production and export potential of irrigated horticultural and fruit products in the 3 main regions of Italy. Recommendations are given for the improvement and operating efficiency of irrigated agriculture with special reference to integrated water management,introduction of sustainable innovative techniques and of new norms for water extraction in areas of pedological and climatic sensitivity.