The agricultural sector is built on plants and animal life, but the industry can still affect the environment in ways that contribute to the ill effects of climate change. According to data published in a 2022 report from McKinsey & Company, agriculture accounts for nearly one quarter of global emissions, and was identified as the industry that contributes the most to exceeding planetary boundaries. Sustainable farming practices can help reduce that impact.
Even though there is growing consumer demand for more environmentally friendly products, farmers in the United States are lagging behind when it comes to adopting sustainable practices, even though they are aware of them. McKinsey reports that 90 percent of U.S. farmers have an understanding of sustainable farming, but adoption of these practices remains low. Here’s a look at some of the sustainable farming practices and what the agricultural sector can do to foster a better planet.
Regenerative techniques
Healthy soil often equates to a healthy planet. The cornerstone of sustainability lies in the soil. The soil serves as a carbon sink and a water filtration system. By avoiding traditional “tilling” farming, farmers can maintain the soil structure. This will reduce erosion and keep carbon sequestered in the ground.
Farmers can plant cover crops like rye or clover in the offseason to prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds and increase the organic matter of the soil. Diversifying species planted in fields will break pest cycles and naturally replenish soil nutrients over time. This can reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Efficient irrigation
Global water scarcity continues to be a concern, and sustainable farms will prioritize water stewardship. In utilizing drip irrigation, which delivers water directly to a plant’s roots, farmers can reduce evaporation and runoff when compared to overhead sprinklers. Collecting and storing rainwater runoff for use during drought can minimize the strain on local aquifers.
Biological pest controls
Farmers can rely on the use of integrated pest management strategies to offset chemical pesticide use. By introducing natural predators, farmers can control certain pest populations. For example, ladybugs can reduce aphids on plants. Relying on traps to collect pests also can slow pest outbreaks and reduce reliance on chemicals.
Creating fertilizers
Farmers can use the waste produced on their farms by turning it into valuable fertilizer. According to the USDA, biochar is a black carbon produced from biomass sources like wood chips, plant residues, manure, and other agricultural waste in a low-oxygen environment through a process known was pyrolysis.
This material can be used as a soil amendment to improve water retention, nutrient uptake and fertility. Chicken litter, bone meal, blood meal, and compost tea are examples of farm waste-derived products that can be used as fertilizers.
Sustainable farming is a step toward the future that protects the land without compromising output.
