Originally published on ONagbusiness by Nick Betts (@SustainingAg)
Defining Sustainability
Sustainability is a holistic, long-term approach to business. It maximizes the economic and environmental stability, equity, and health of the farm, business, and family.
A sustainable approach to farming is more than talking about environmental actions or maximizing profits.
Sustainability focusses on business processes and practices, rather than a specific food, fibre, or feed output. It integrates economic, environmental and societal values to create a Triple Bottom Line (i.e. understanding and accounting for three “bottom lines”: economic, social, and enviornment, instead of simply looking at a cash flow analysis for actions in your operations). This is very different from a purely profit-driven approach, where businesses benefit economically, but often at the expense of the environment and society.
Agricultural Context
Sustainable Agriculture is…
“the efficient production of safe, high quality agricultural product, in a way that protects and improves the natural environment, the social and economic conditions of the farmers, their employees and local communities, and safeguards the health and welfare of all farmed species.” (Sustainable Agricultural Initiative Platform, 2010)
Read full article at ONagbusiness New Spring = New Season. Make it More Sustainable.
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