an approach to growing food and fiber which is profitable, uses on-farm resources efficiently to minimize adverse effects on the environment and people, preserves the natural productivity and quality of land and water, and sustains vibrant rural communities.
A system of agricultural production that supplies the necessities of the present without compromising or polluting the resources of the future.
Environmentally friendly methods of farming that allow the production of crops or livestock without damage to the farm as an ecosystem, including effects on soil, water supplies, biodiversity, or other surrounding natural resources. The concept of sustainable agriculture is an "intergenerational" one in which we pass on a conserved or improved natural resource base instead of one which has been depleted or polluted. Terms often associated with farms or ranches that are self-sustaining include "low-input," organic, "ecological," "biodynamic," and "permaculture."
is defined as agriculture that meets the needs of the current generation while conserving resources for the use of future generations.
An agricultural system that is dependent solely on renewable resources and that maintains the soil in such a condition so that it will continue to be productive indefinitely.
Farming practices that make efficient use of renewable (or replaceable) resources and are based upon the fundamental principle of not harming the environment or local ecology. Choosing crops to suit the climate, thus reducing the need for irrigation, is one example.!-- google_ad_client = "pub-6700624969687881"; google_ad_width = 234; google_ad_height = 60; google_ad_format = "234x60_as"; google_ad_type = "text"; google_ad_channel ="7512561969"; google_color_border = "FFFFFF"; google_color_bg = "FFFFFF"; google_color_link = "448079"; google_color_url = "448079"; google_color_text = "414141";
production that avoids exploitation of natural resources while ensuring the maintenance of productivity
Crop production practices designed to minimize undesirable environmental consequences of modern mechanized agriculture such as chemical pollution, soil erosion, soil compaction, etc.
looks to change present, energy intensive, practices and would include all social and environmental impacts as well as economic.
Unlike industrial agriculture which views farming like a factory, sustainable agriculture views farming as a natural, integrated, holistic system. Furthermore, according to findings published in the scientific journal Nature, November 11, 1998, organic yields equal conventional after only four years and that soil quality improves, carbon dioxide emissions are reduced, and in periods of drought, organic fields can actually yield more than conventional plots.
An ecologically sound, economically viable, socially just, and humane agricultural system. Stewardship, soil conservation, and integrated pest management are essential for sustainability.
whereby the farmer is able to increase or maintain crop yields long term, whilst conserving natural resources and protecting the environment
A low external input farming system promoting organic recycling and appropriate cropping patterns.
An environmentally sound, productive, economically viable, and socially desirable farming method. Refer to Nutrilite Farming Practices.
Farming that provides a secure living for farm families; maintains the natural environment and resources; supports the rural community; and offers respect and fair treatment to all involved, from farm workers to consumers to the animals raised for food.
The application of husbandry experience and scientific knowledge of natural processes to create integrated, resource conserving farming systems, based on respect for the people and animals involved which reduce environmental degradation, and which promote agricultural productivity and economic viability in both the short and long term.
Per the Congressional 1990 "Farm Bill" [Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 (FACTA), Public Law 101-624, Title XVI, Subtitle A, Section 1603], "the term sustainable agriculture means an integrated system of plant and animal production practices having a site-specific application that will, over the long term: • satisfy human food and fiber needs • enhance environmental quality and the natural resource base upon which the agricultural economy depends • make the most efficient use of nonrenewable resources and on-farm resources and integrate, where appropriate, natural biological cycles and controls • sustain the economic viability of farm operations • enhance the quality of life for farmers and society as a whole."
n: Method of growing crops and raising livestock based on organic fertilizers, soil conservation, water conservation, biological control of pests, and minimal use of non-renewable fossil-fuel energy.
Sustainable agriculture integrates three main goals: environmental stewardship, farm profitability, and prosperous farming communities. These goals have been defined by a variety of disciplines and may be looked at from the vantage point of the farmer or the consumer.