I would say the big biotech companies are the world's leading authorities with regard to the issue of how we can feed the world in the coming decades.
Example: http://www.monsanto.com/responsibility/sustainable-ag/default.asp Excerpts: "By 2050, say United Nations’ experts, our planet must double food production to feed an anticipated population of 9.3 billion people." "By 2030, Monsanto commits to help farmers produce more and conserve more by: Developing improved seeds that help farmers double yields from 2000 levels for corn, soybeans, cotton, and spring-planted canola, with a $10 million grant pledged to improve wheat and rice yields.” Paul Cherubini El Dorado, Calif.
