Journal of Environmental Law & Litigation : Vol. 26, No. 1, p. 019-028 : Keynote Address: Reconsidering the Industrialization of Agriculture

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Date

2011

Authors

Schneider, Susan A.

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

University of Oregon School of Law

Abstract

As we consider the food needs of an increased global population that is facing the effects of climate change and the reality of finite natural resources, it is imperative that all models of agricultural production be evaluated honestly and accurately. Environmental and social costs should be considered as parts of the cost of production, and sustainability—as opposed to short-term productivity—should be the measure of success. A sustainable system should work with, rather than against, natural processes. Technology should enhance, rather than replace, these processes. Government policies should favor only those models that meet these long-term tests. Industrialized agriculture has brought us short-term bounty and long-term concerns. Looking at its true costs with its benefits is the only way that its efficiency can truly be assessed. If industrialized agriculture is not assessed, in the long run environmental problems and limited natural resources may well provide their own limitations, much to our detriment.

Description

10 pages

Keywords

Sustainable agriculture, Agricultural productivity

Citation

26 J. ENVTL. L. & LITIG. 19 (2011)