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)