Introduction
Agriculture is one of the backbones of our civilization. Yet, in farming, centuries have been draining our planet. Because of these facts, sustainable agriculture practices in our routine have become very important for a cleaner and healthier planet. In this blog, we'll delve into why sustainable farming exists and should thrive. Let us discuss some of the interesting facts and examples that will help prove its significance.
What is sustainable agriculture?
It is that type of agriculture that strives to meet current needs without damaging the ability of future generations to attain the exact same. Or, in other words, practices that are protective of the environment, public health, human communities, and the welfare of animals. In simple words, it can be explained as "farming that's good for the planet, good for the people and good for business."
Why is Sustainable Agriculture important?
Environment Conversation: The type and quantity of chemical fertilizers and pesticides used today in farming are ruining the land, water, and air. Organic farming and crop rotation are ways of sustainable farming that ensure fertile land and reduce pollution in the soil.
Biodiversity Conservation: Sustainable agriculture comprises the co-existence of diverse ecosystems. Growing a mixture of crops instead of monoculture crops attracts insects and animals to the farmland, which is good for the crops as well as for the land. These will eat the pests, hence avoiding the dangerous chemical pesticides. Crop rotation catches the nutritional value of the land and enhances its fertility.
Economic viability: In the long run, the approach to sustainable agriculture can be implemented at low cost. Better and more efficient use of natural resources tends to reduce dependency on chemical inputs, allowing farmers to make economies and raise profits.
- Food Security: With the projected 9.7 billion people in the world by 2050, sustainable farming practices will thus play a very central role in continuing to feed humanity. Two key ingredients for obtaining more quality food from less land are healthy soils and an efficient water supply.
Interesting Facts About Sustainable Agriculture
India:
Zero Budget Natural Farming: This is another farming practice led by Subhash Palekar that helps farmers come out of their dependence on loans and subsidies by using natural fertilizers and pesticides. Keeping its potential in view, the Government of India is actively promoting ZBNF across the country.
Pusa Decomposer: Scientists of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute developed a bio decomposer called "Pusa Decomposer" in 2021 against the problem associated with the stubble burning in the regions of Punjab and Haryana. Since it is eco-friendly, it helped decompose crop residues, hence improving the air quality and health of the soil.
International:
Regenerative agriculture not only reinstates the topsoil but also increases biodiversity and water flow. It has become an increasing practice for farmers in the USA, Australia, and Brazil. Now, General Mills is one of the leading companies that has committed to the large-scale advancement of regenerative agriculture.
Some of the examples of sustainable farming practices include:
Vertical Farming: This is a way of farming where the crops are grown vertically. This method of farming is applied in countries where there is a shortage of land, like Singapore and Japan. This form of farming consumes very little water and uses very minimal land, but yields highly since crops are cultivated in stacked layers. This has helped reduce food security issues.
Crop rotation: This helps a farmer improve fertility in the soil and decreases the chance of pests or diseases. For instance, legumes are known to have the natural ability to enrich soils with nitrogen and hence, favour crops to be grown after them.
Agroforestry: This includes planting of trees and shrubs within the farmland. Trees provide shade, bind soil, and improve biodiversity. In India, "Vrikshayurveda" saves trees grown in the farming field for sustainable benefits.
Organic Farming: By avoiding synthetic chemicals in farming, natural alternatives can easily promote healthy soil and hence, healthier food. Interest in organic farming grows with the pioneers of these farms in Germany and France worldwide.
- Permaculture: It is holistic farming, meaning it seeks to establish self-sustaining farm systems. Basically, it uses what nature does; under permaculture farming methods, farms are able to produce food while at the same time conserving the environment.
Conclusion
Sustainable agriculture methodologies are a must for the future of the planet. Therefore, sustainable farming can become a step toward a healthy and resilient world with continuous interlinking between protection of the environment, preservation of biodiversity, economic viability, and food security. Let us combine efforts to make sure abundant food is sustainably produced.
Agriculture is one of the backbones of our civilization. Yet, in farming, centuries have been draining our planet. Because of these facts, sustainable agriculture practices in our routine have become very important for a cleaner and healthier planet. In this blog, we'll delve into why sustainable farming exists and should thrive. Let us discuss some of the interesting facts and examples that will help prove its significance.