What is meant by sustainable agriculture?

The growth in the population and improvements in living standards in many countries have resulted in rising consumption and increased demands on the world's natural resources.

By definition, sustainability refers to the long-term endurance of a system. Sustainable agriculture aims to farm foods in a manner that is efficient and productive while conserving and improving the environment and local communities. The concept of sustainable agriculture includes activities such as keeping the use of fertilisers and pesticides as low as possible while still producing high-yielding and good quality crops. This ensures that any adverse effects on the environment are minimised and helps to improve conditions for members of the local community by providing jobs and caring for the environment.

The approach to sustainable agriculture will obviously vary due to differences in local conditions, environment and cultures. The overall aim however, to preserve and improve environmental conditions whilst still achieving optimal output, remains the same.