“Sustainable Agriculture: a positive step toward the betterment of the planet”
It was Robert. F. Kennedy Jr. who said: “If we want to provide our children with the same opportunities for dignity and enrichment as those our parents gave us, we’ve got to start by protecting the air, water, wildlife and landscapes that connects us to our national values and character. It’s that simple.”
This statement is very true; however, this is becoming more and more difficult as we are often presented with food that is not in its wholesome, natural, local or nutritious state. Consequently, these types of foods are affecting our health and our planet. Our bodies are our vehicles through life and we need to fuel them properly and efficiently. The well being of humans and of the planet is aligned, so if the Earth is sick, we cannot be entirely healthy.
It is time for a long-term solution! Today, I am here to inform you about the importance of sustainable agriculture and how we can make choices in order to preserve the overall health of our beautiful Mother Earth.
We often hear the word sustainability, but what does it really mean?
When referring to sustainable agriculture, this “involves food production methods that are healthy, do not harm the environment, respect workers, are humane to animals, provide fair wages to farmers, and support farming communities.”
For the most part, sustainable agriculture is usually related to local food, which is another step toward the betterment of the planet.
This all sounds so positive, so let’s take a closer look at the benefits of buying local and supporting sustainable methods?
Firstly, sustainable agriculture aims to put back into the environment what has been removed. Therefore, water, soil and air can be replenished and available for our future generations and natural habitats can be preserved. This is fantastic because Mother Nature only gives back to us what we put into her, so it is important to give her the respect and appreciation she deserves.
Secondly, local farmers promote biodiversity by growing a variety of plants. In fact, “in 1866, 1,186 varieties of fruits and vegetables were produced in California. Today, California’s farms produce only 350 commercial crops.” It is important to maintain all varieties, not only those with a long shelf life!!!
Lastly, local farmers put less stress on the environment when it comes to production, transportation, processing and packaging. Did you know that, according to Get Local BC: “The average North American meal travels 2,400 km to get from field to plate and contains ingredients from 5 countries in addition to our own – that’s a lot of “food miles.” Unfortunately, industrial food production is entirely dependent on fossil fuels and when refined and burned, this creates greenhouse gases and contributes to climate change.
Furthermore, when it comes to packaging, large amounts of non-recyclable paper and plastic are used to keep food fresh and in tact during transportation and storage. When we buy local, we create less waste and a smaller carbon footprint, as food is grown closer to home.
It may seem as though all I am saying is “grow your own carrots instead of driving to the grocery store to buy some”, but it is more that. I am talking about a global solution; a multifaceted, innovative and long-term approach to health, environmental and even hunger issues, which would benefit from the use of sustainable methods.
So, what can you do today?
A great start is to reorient ourselves with the natural diet of our ancestors and eat more wholesome and even organic foods. We can do this by supporting local farmers who use sustainable methods, by eating seasonally oreven growing our own food – even if it means on a balcony!
Moreover, Canada let’s trim our waste (waist)! Ok, yes, the benefits of eating local wholesome food will offer great health benefits, which would lead to weight loss, but today I am talking about packaging and processing waste. Lets make a conscious effort to buy less packaged foods.
When we consume food that we know is good for our body and our planet, we feel better about our choices. Trust me- it’s a great way to make a difference, all while feeling grounded with Mother Nature.
Sustainable agriculture is not the need for a law or regulation; it is a choice, a way of life. Each step you take benefits both you and your family, and helps preserve and protect the planet for future generations.
I can still remember as a child, sitting in my garden, barefoot and full of dirt…mom and dad thought my sister and I were out picking snow peas for dinner…but our little secret…we were eating them all.
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