sustainability in agriculture

Sustainability in agriculture means farming in ways that meet today's needs, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. There are many aspects to sustainability in agriculture. The USDA states that these practices are intended to protect the environment, expand our natural resources, and maintain soil fertility. They also allow farmers to augment profit and productivity. 

Some basic sustainable agriculture practices are rotating crops, reducing tillage, using integrated pest management, and integrating livestock and crops. Rotating crops and reducing tillage allow farmers to maintain and possibly improve soil levels. Integrated pest management cuts back on the use of chemical pesticides and provides a more natural strategy for protecting crops. Integrating livestock and crops increases water filtration and prevents soil erosion. It also allows farmers to cut back on chemical fertilizers because they have convenient access to natural fertilizers. 

Many companies are striving to highlight sustainability in their mission statements and practices. Darling Ingredients is a company that produces ingredients high in nutrients for humans, animals, and plants. Their mission statement is; “Customers can be assured that our ingredients are fully traceable, and our products and processes are fully compliant with safety regulations. With unique product characteristics that not only provide nourishment but also possess techno-functional and bio-functional properties, they allow people, animals, plants, and soil to grow and prosper.” 

Industrial agriculture suppresses the idea of sustainability. Large farms with constant use of chemicals and the same crops every year are not beneficial to the environment. “This system is not built to last, because it squanders and degrades the resources it depends on” scientists state. 

Many food chains and stores are starting to focus on sustainability as well. For example, Taco Bell is seeking to “source ingredients from suppliers who prioritize sustainable farming practices.” Understanding how important being sustainable is for our success and the generations behind us is vital to the developing world around us.