Sustainability In Farming

Sustainability in Agriculture and Farming “In half of a century, our soils have increased from 1 percent to 8 percent organic matter, and OM [organic matter] is the foundational test of soil resilience and fertility,” states Joel Salatin, speaking of his family farm, Polyface farms (Salatin). Sustainable farming has been around for millennia, but with the destructiveness that many modern farming methods cause, it has gained a growing measure of popularity with people who wish to wisely use our natural resources. Many people also like sustainable agriculture because it is a feasible way to get into farming and, especially in Community Supported Agricultural (CSA) dominated areas, provides a strong sense of community. In short, sustainability …show more content…
People may wonder why sustainability is necessary, but there are plenty of reasons. Two of these reasons are especially important to Bible believing Christians. First, in the beginning, just after God had created the earth, he informs Adam and Eve (the first two human beings) of their duties in taking care of the earth (King James Version, Gen. 1.28). These responsibilities were foundational in the Creation account; they are still foundational to our responsibilities as stewards of the earth today. That is how Joel Salatin runs Polyface Farm. “In business terms, am I giving God a good Return on Investment (ROI)? Pollution, erosion, pathogenicity, desertification, nutrient deficiency, toxicity--these are not good ROIs. The opposite is, and that’s what our farming offers” (Salatin). As Christians, it is our obligation to do our best to take care of the earth, and to love our fellow human beings (John 13.34). The second obligation (actually a command) is also the second reason that we are to care for the earth with a wise heart. If we are to truly love our neighbors, then we must be willing to put in the effort required to manage and restore our land in a way that benefits others (i.e. sustainable agriculture). Yet another reason that sustainable agriculture is valuable is that it is good for us. Most sustainable agriculture produces natural or organic produce, which has more health benefits than typical, commercial produce …show more content…
Nevertheless, in the past few years, farmers and onlookers alike have begun to not only approve of the restorative principles used in sustainable farming, but have also commenced sustainable agriculture themselves. The reasons differ from a desire for healthier food and cleaner environment to Christians wanting to fulfill the Creation Mandate (meaning that they also want healthy food and a clean environment). Furthermore, the fact that sustainable agriculture is a very affordable alternative to typical agriculture makes it even more attractive to people, especially people who desire to have a strong sense of community. All this brings together the fact that sustainable agriculture is a valid approach to honoring God through