Why Sustainable Agriculture Important

 

Why Sustainable Agriculture Important

Sustainable agriculture gives equal weight to environmental, social, and economic concerns in agriculture. Agricultural sustainability rests on the principle that we must meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Sustainable agriculture brings together natural systems which benefit economic, social, and environmental landscapes with farming resources. It involves complex integrations of agricultural specificities, like-

• Water Management
• Building and maintaining healthy soil
• Minimizing air, water, and climate pollution

Sustainable agriculture practices

Decades of science and practical application have created some key areas of sustainable farming practices. They are-

• Rotating crops- By planting a different variety of crops, it helps to improve pest control and create healthier soil.
• Crop diversity- This means including intercropping and multi-year crop rotations.
• Planting cover crops- Crops such as clover or hairy vetch are planted in the off-season to cover bare soil. This helps to keep the soil healthy by replenishing nutrients and preventing erosion, among other reasons.
• Reducing or eliminating tillage- Tillage is another term for traditional plowing. It is traditionally used to prepare fields for planting. However, it has caused some loss of soil. Reduced tillage methods have seen improved soil health.
• Applying integrated pest management (IPM)- Pests can ravage crops and farmland. Mechanical and biological control methods can be used to reduce pest populations while minimizing the use of chemical pesticides.
• Integrating livestock and crops- Evidence has shown integrating animals with crop production areas is a more efficient approach to farming.
• Adopting agroforestry practices- By using trees and shrubs to shelter animals and the land they graze on; farmers have seen additional profits.

The Importance of Sustainable Agriculture

Makes use of the land

Sustainable farming uses all aspects of land with a more efficient approach. Planting a variety of crops on a single patch of land produces more food per acre. Crop diversity can also make the crops grow stronger. Because of the different genetics involved, there is less risk of the crops failing from diseases or pest infestation.

Works with nature

Working with nature instead of against it, sustainable farming focuses on a regenerative approach. Improving resources through soil enrichment, increased biodiversity, and enhanced ecosystems keep farmland from depleting.

Creates a stable food supply

A consolidated grouping of farms under a corporate umbrella can impact a large bulk of the country’s farmers even when only one farmer is having problems. Sustainable farming seeks to be more dispersed to limit financial instability and its impact on the overall agricultural industry. As the population continues to grow with an estimated 9.7 billion by 2050, sustainable farming hopes to be the answer to continue providing enough food.

It promotes local communities

Local food production is highly encouraged through sustainable farming methods. By having a local food system, the profits can be reinvested throughout the community in several ways such as increased job opportunities. The environmental impact of sustainable farming is also an important factor to the community. It also supports well-maintained habitats for wildlife.

Benefits of Sustainable Farming

There are many benefits to committing to sustainable agriculture practices.

1. Environment conservation

Sustainable farming reduces the reliance on chemical use and nonrenewable energy. This helps prevent soil degeneration and keeps the land healthy. Saving resources will benefit the demand for food in the future.

2. Cost reduction and profit focus

Having a more efficient farming system benefits the entire agriculture industry with profitability. Data sensors continue to monitor everything from seed drills, sprayers, and spreaders to minimize surprises that can cause higher costs.

3. Improving food production and lessening food waste

Improving food production will help feed the growing population in the world while minimizing food waste. Developing agricultural practices with sustainable agriculture opens the possibility.

Methods of Sustainable Agriculture

1. Crop Rotation

Crop rotation is used to avoid planting problems. Rotating crops helps replenish nutrients in the soil and the plants themselves. The rotation also curbs pest problems as pests won’t congregate in one spot on a specific crop. Lower pest infestation means chemicals and pesticides won’t need to be used either.

2. Permaculture

Permaculture is a food production system intended to increase efficiency in productivity while reducing the waste of resources. Some of the techniques used in permaculture include herb and plant spirals; non-tillage grain growing and garden beds. Each of these is meant to serve multiple purposes. Permaculture focuses on a designed system that integrates perennial crops to mimic a natural ecosystem.

3. Cover Crops

Planting crops over a barren area enhances soil quality to avoid erosion and suppresses weed overgrowth. Clover is one of the crops often used for this task. Planting cover crops also lessens the need for chemical fertilizers.

4. Soil Enrichment

Keeping soil enriched and healthy is an important component of farming. Soil health can be disrupted over time when too many pesticides are used. When the soil is enriched it leads to a better harvest of crops. Some ways to enrich soil include using composted plant material or animal manure.

Sustainable Agriculture and Technology

The U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance (USFRA) is backing technology in sustainable agriculture efforts. More farmers are using technology in many aspects of their food growth. Some types of technological advances have seen the use of moisture sensors, smart irrigation, and terrain contour mapping to produce food in a more efficient and eco-friendly manner.

According to the Future of Agriculture in The Economist, using tech in farms helps with sustainability and to remain profitable. Today’s sustainable farms and ranchers use both hardware and software to contribute to the analysis of their farm efforts. Technology can see further than the human eye. Using a mix of math and data analysis, the farmers can have a better understanding of how their crops are produced.

An example of technology on the farm would be the use of drones. Putting a multispectral sensor on a drone that passes over the land will collect data that helps create a better watering schedule. Using that same sensor on a tractor fertilizing soil shows the amount of nitrogen needed in certain crops.

A survey conducted by the USFRA showed that 56% of farmers and ranchers were likely to begin using technology for sustainable farming.

Innovations in Sustainable Agriculture

A report at the 2017 National Academy of Sciences stated that the agriculture industry is increasing the use of information and communication technology (ICT). Some innovations have already made it from the design phase and are already being used by food producers and distributors the world over.

1. Digital Sensors

Technology for digital sensors is versatile. They can be used on drones to produce aerial images and collect data. From an aerial view, farmers can watch cattle movements, collect climate data, and even see the precise pH level of the soil.

2. Irrigation

Irrigation is important to food production but water waste is also an issue. Technological innovations developing ways to use less water but get ample irrigation. These irrigation innovations will be more efficient and create sustainability.

3. Drones

The use of drones in agriculture will continue to grow and evolve as producers harness this very powerful technology in various aspects of their production. Drones can carry a wide array of sensors and cameras that can continually monitor crop-growing conditions.

4. Biotechnology

Biotechnology is making a major impact on sustainable agriculture. By using this tool, crop breeders can grow plants that have specific traits. Biotechnology has been able to take an agricultural method that has been around for centuries, like crop breeding, and make it more efficient.

5. Fleet Management

Advanced telemetry systems and GPS are game changers for agricultural fleet management. These systems track equipment being used and can generate important information on each piece. The high-end models show engine speed, and how much fuel is used, and deliver maintenance alerts. Ultimately, the goal is to have the most efficient equipment in the fleet.

The Future of Sustainable Agriculture

Innovations for environmental sustainability in agriculture continue to be explored. Using a dedicated process, sustainable agriculture has shown marked improvements towards the environment, the land, and the farmers who till it. By continuing to make resources available for sustainable farming, healthy crops can be produced at less cost.

These ideas are starting to branch out from the farms and into restaurants, offices, and people’s backyards. Vertical farming systems have been introduced to grow sustainable food almost anywhere. These micro-farms can supply safe, healthy, and sustainable food at many locations. They are being called future farming techniques.

Impact

Pollution

Agriculture is the leading source of pollution in many countries. Pesticides, fertilizers, and other toxic farm chemicals can poison fresh water, marine ecosystems, air, and soil. They also can remain in the environment for generations. Many pesticides are suspected of disrupting the hormonal systems of people and wildlife. Fertilizer run-off impacts waterways and coral reefs.

Poverty

Farming is the only viable livelihood option for three-quarters of the global population living below the poverty line. Subsidies provided by US and European governments to their agriculturalists encourage overproduction, which drives down world prices and forces many producers in developing countries to cut corners environmentally. Producers facing declining harvests from cleared lands expand into surrounding wild lands that are rich in biodiversity, resulting in a cycle of more people living below the poverty line and biodiversity loss.

Water Consumption

The agricultural sector consumes about 69 percent of the planet’s fresh water. Without creative conservation measures in place, agricultural production consumes excessive water and degrades water quality. This adversely impacts freshwater systems throughout the world.

Climate Change

Many farming practices — such as burning fields and using gasoline-powered machinery — are significant contributors to the buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contends that the livestock sector alone is responsible for 18% of all greenhouse gas production. Additionally, clearing land for agricultural production is a major contributor to climate change, as the carbon stored in intact forests is released when they are cut or burned.

10 Incredible Facts About Sustainable Farming

1. Climate-Smart Agriculture Works- The way that farmers work has direct short- and long-term impacts on overall planetary health, which is what makes climate-smart approaches so important. This means that adopting sustainable farming practices can create real change to reduce climate risks and promote a greener, brighter future. With support from governments and consumers, farmers can lead the path to a healthier planet!
2. New Zealand is a Sustainability Game-Changer- New Zealand can be considered a sustainability game-changer, thanks to clear goals and efficient sustainability initiatives. Currently, New Zealand is working to introduce more carbon-efficient farming programs, as well as increasing sustainability solutions and implementing 100% environment- and health-safe stewardship by 2030.
3. Sustainable Farming Reduces Environmental Damage- By adopting sustainable farming solutions, agricultural workers can protect the natural environment. Sustainable efforts may include reducing emissions, optimizing land use, reducing water consumption, and maintaining soil fertility. These efforts can go a long way toward preserving environmental health and combatting the effects of global warming.
4. Sustainable Farming is Better for Human Health- Transitioning to sustainable farming practices can lead to improved human health outcomes. Beyond providing safer, healthier environments for people to live in, sustainable farming solutions reduce toxins and harsh chemicals — like pesticides — that can cause illness when consumed. Sustainable agriculture also accounts for less antibiotic dependence among livestock, which can reduce the occurrence of antibiotic resistance around the world.
5. Truly Sustainable Agriculture Requires a Range of Approaches-Sustainable farming is complex and must include a diverse range of techniques and strategies to be successful. Sustainable farms might adopt renewable energies or choose water-efficient maintenance systems. They might focus on sustainable feed for livestock, or they may aim to reduce waste onsite. When many sustainability approaches are used together, the impact can be incredible!
6. Sustainable Farming Can Improve Food Security- In the long term, sustainable agriculture can help to improve food security by supporting optimal soil health and providing a reliable food supply. Sustainable farms are often able to produce climate-resilient foods, and they can provide high-quality products to local consumers. This helps to reduce rates of food insecurity, ensuring that everyone has enough to eat, even when conditions are harsh.
7. Farmers can Work Together for Sustainability- Farmers don’t have to work alone! Sustainable farming relies on farmers who work together and share ideas and approaches. Many sustainable farmers have industry friends and colleagues they can turn to when they’re looking for new ways to improve sustainability. Sustainable farming communities support each other to make farming safe, healthy, and effective for everyone.
8. Sustainable Farming Solutions Benefit Industry and Economy- Contrary to popular belief, sustainable agriculture is good for the farming industry and the national economy! Many consumers want to support sustainable and organic farming practices, knowing the impact that these practices have on health and the environment. This leads to high economic returns. Sustainable farming techniques also allow farmers to preserve resources, allowing them to maintain efficient, productive operations for longer.
9. Organic Farming is Growing in New Zealand- Organic farming has been on the rise in New Zealand since the early 2000s, and the sector continues to grow. Increasing public awareness has led to major growth in organic sales. Domestic consumers in New Zealand spent about $723 million on organic products in 2020! That’s $691 million more than in the year 2000 before a 2001 royal commission called genetic modification into question.
10. Sustainable Agriculture Still Has Room to Grow-stainable farming works to achieve a few key goals. Until those goals are met, there’s still room to improve. As the sustainable agriculture sector continues to grow, farmers are working to improve the quality of life for all of us. That means providing plenty of healthy food while looking after livestock and protecting the natural environment.