What does the term "sustainable agriculture" mean?

The term "sustainable agriculture" refers to farming practices that prioritize minimizing environmental impact while maintaining agricultural productivity. It encompasses a holistic approach that balances economic viability, environmental health, and social equity. In sustainable agriculture, methods are designed to reduce resource consumption, improve soil health, conserve water, and minimize pollution, ensuring that farming activities do not compromise the ability of future generations to produce food.

This concept contrasts sharply with practices that focus solely on profit without regard for environmental consequences, such as industrial farming techniques that often lead to habitat destruction and biodiversity loss. It also differs from the exclusive reliance on genetically modified organisms, which may not necessarily address broader sustainability goals. The emphasis on practices that consider the ecological context is what establishes sustainable agriculture as a key component of broader strategies to address climate risk and promote resilience in food systems.