 What is sustainable agriculture? Over the past two decades a movement has emerged to address the environmental and social concerns due to increased demand for farming production. Chief among these concerns are topsoil depletion, groundwater contamination, the decline of family farms, increasing costs of production and economic decline of our rural communities. Today, sustainable agriculture is gaining support within the agricultural community because it offers innovative and economically viable solutions for growers, consumers and the entire food system. Sustainable agriculture has three main goals – environmental health, economic profitability, and social and economic equity. The main principle of sustainable agriculture is that we must meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Good stewardship of both natural and human resources is key. Consider these factors that contribute to a successful sustainable ag system:
Making the transition to sustainable agriculture is a process and the responsibility of all participants – farmers, laborers, consumers and retailers. |
