Sustainable Agriculture
Definition
Sustainable agriculture is a way of farming that aims to meet our current food and textile needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. It focuses on maintaining the health of the environment, the economy, and communities.
Scientific / Technical Definition
Sustainable agriculture involves practices that maintain and restore ecosystem health while supporting productive farming operations. It integrates three main goals: environmental health, economic profitability, and social and economic equity. Key practices include crop rotation, conservation tillage, and biologically based pest management to minimize ecological impacts.
Benefits
- Improves soil health and reduces erosion
- Promotes biodiversity and ecosystem stability
- Reduces reliance on chemical inputs and fossil fuels
- Enhances resilience to climate change
Examples
- Crop rotation to naturally enrich soil nutrients
- Agroforestry systems incorporating trees with crops or livestock
- Use of organic fertilizers such as compost or manure
- Integrated pest management instead of chemical pesticides
Additional Information
- Importance: Sustainable agriculture is important for ensuring long-term food security, preserving natural resources, and supporting the livelihoods of farmers and local communities.
References
Last updated: 10/19/2024