The Promotion of Sustainable Agricultural Practices

Abstract

Minimizing the ecological footprint created by agriculture is crucial, as it enables future generations to thrive in an environment that sustains a food supply, both in quality and quantity. Current agricultural practices are polluting the environment through the use of fertilizers and greenhouse gas emissions, significantly contributing to climate change and biodiversity loss. Both issues contribute to a large ecological footprint, which can be defined as the amount of materials required to support an individual’s lifestyle. However, agricultural practices are advancing, aiming to decrease our ecological footprint and mitigate environmental impacts. Modern, sustainable agricultural practices have a positive impact on the environment by reducing pollution in the air, water, and soil. The goal of this review is to analyze strategies for promoting sustainable agriculture practices that minimize the ecological footprint. Technological innovations promote sustainable agriculture by providing methods to combat the globe's growing ecological footprint. Education about sustainable agriculture is crucial for ensuring food security for future generations, aligning with the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of achieving Zero Hunger. Likewise, when education promotes experimental learning, it enables individuals to learn more about the impact of humans on the environment. Without food security, consumers would likely face struggles, including health concerns and higher prices. Policy makers draft laws to ensure the SDG of Responsible Consumption and Production of food for years to come. Economic incentives further encourage the implementation of said laws. The UN’s SDGs of Climate Action, Zero Hunger, and Responsible Consumption and Production are common themes found in the literature. Throughout this review, researchers gained a deeper understanding of the numerous factors that influence agricultural sustainability.