Industrial agriculture is one of the most unsustainable practices of modern civilization.
The ‘bigger is better’ food system has reached a point where its real costs are becoming apparent, including massive pollution and loss of life – animal and plant life.
We have already seen more than 93 per cent of our fruit and vegetable seeds varieties disappear over the last 100 years. Another 60,000 to 100,000 plant species are in danger of extinction.
Industrial farming is responsible for more than 37 per cent of methane emissions, 90 per cent of carbon dioxide and copious hydrogen sulfide ammonia. It uses up to 70 per cent of the world’s fresh water supply.
In addition, a high percentage of all water-quality problems in rivers and streams is from chemical-laden agricultural run-off that leads to toxic algal blooms, fish kills and ‘dead zones’.
Fortunately we are seeing a new breed of farmer who are returning to the old ways in combination with new technology. They are raising a wide variety of plants and animals in a way that copies a natural community.
They believe that regeneration and sustainability and concern for future generations is as important as turning a profit. The key is to build healthy soil and pastures.
KATE TRAVERS
High Street
Sutton
Via e-mail
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