Implementing eco-friendly practices is a priority of almost every industry. This is excellent news for our planet, as sustainable policies only increase our Earth’s well-being and help protect the beautiful life found here. More specifically, agriculture has made some incredible strides in developing green strategies that aim to better the planet. Learn about these alternative farming methods that help the environment.
Biodynamic Farming
Biodynamic farming includes recycling organic materials to create nutrient-rich soil. Instead of removing dirt from its natural location to fertilize crops, biodynamic agriculture uses nutrients generated by the farm’s animals to replenish the earth. Biodiversity is important to ecosystems, which biodynamic farming encourages. This is just one of many alternative farming methods that help the environment.
Agroforestry
It’s no secret that trees are in danger in certain parts of the world. Some farmers try to combat this problem by incorporating agroforestry into their practices. Agroforestry involves planting trees among crops to create the perfect microclimate for growth. Not only does agroforestry help replenish the dwindling number of trees in the world, but it also stabilizes soil and reduces nutrient waste.
Sustainable Animal Farming
We’ve all heard the saying, “happy cows make happy milk,” or some other variation. There is so much truth to this statement that agriculture professionals are turning to sustainable animal farming to raise livestock. When you allow animals to live in an uncaged environment, they are less vulnerable to stress. Stress-free animals produce higher-quality food that looks, smells, and tastes better than the products that come from animals who are stuck in a cage.
Urban Agriculture
The need for close, homegrown produce is at an all-time high. Urban agriculture aims to make this a reality for people living in packed cities. Rooftop farms and urban greenhouses use eco-friendly methods to grow crops without generating excess waste. Vertical farming is ecologically sustainable and reduces water use through water recycling. Urban agriculture doesn’t just protect the environment; it also gives people access to fresh food that might usually have been out of reach.
There are so many amazing things happening in agriculture today that will positively impact the environment. By implementing alternative strategies, farmers can be part of the solution and help set society up for success in the future.
