Terrestrial Food Production Systems and Food Choices
Factors Influencing Sustainability
The sustainability of terrestrial food production systems is influenced by a complex interplay of various factors:
Scale and Industrialization
Large-scale industrial farming often prioritizes efficiency and yield but may compromise sustainability. For example, massive monoculture farms in the American Midwest can produce high yields of corn or soybeans but often rely heavily on synthetic inputs and may lead to soil degradation over time.
ExampleThe average size of farms in the United States has increased from about 155 acres in 1935 to 444 acres in 2019, reflecting the trend towards larger, more industrialized operations.
Mechanization and Fossil Fuel Use
Modern agriculture heavily relies on machinery powered by fossil fuels, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Tractors, harvesters, and irrigation systems increase productivity but at an environmental cost.
NoteThe agricultural sector accounts for approximately 10% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, with a significant portion coming from farm equipment and transportation.
Seed, Crop, and Livestock Choices
The selection of plant varieties and animal breeds can significantly impact sustainability. Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) may increase yields or pest resistance but raise concerns about biodiversity and long-term ecological effects.
Common MistakeMany people believe all GMOs are harmful to health or the environment. However, the scientific consensus is that approved GMOs are safe for consumption, and some may even have environmental benefits, such as reducing pesticide use.
Water Use
Agriculture is the largest consumer of freshwater globally. Irrigation practices vary in efficiency, with methods like drip irrigation being more sustainable than flood irrigation.
ExampleIn California's Central Valley, a major agricultural region, groundwater depletion due to intensive irrigation has led to land subsidence, with some areas sinking by more than 28 feet since the 1920s.
Fertilizers and Pest Control
While essential for high yields, excessive use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides can lead to water pollution, soil degradation, and harm to non-target species.
TipIntegrated Pest Management (IPM) is a sustainable approach that combines biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools to minimize economic, health, and environmental risks.
Pollinators and Antibiotics
The decline of pollinators, particularly bees, threatens global food security. Meanwhile, the overuse of antibiotics in livestock contributes to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Legislation and Production Levels
Government policies and the balance between commercial and subsistence farming significantly influence sustainability. Subsidies, trade agreements, and environmental regulations shape agricultural practices and market dynamics.
Comparing Food Production Systems
Food production systems can be evaluated based on various criteria:
Inputs
- Fertilizers: Organic vs. synthetic
- Water: Rainfed vs. irrigated systems
- Pest control: Chemical vs. biological methods
- Labor: Manual vs. mechanized
- Seeds: Heirloom vs. hybrid vs. GMO
- Breeding stock: Local vs. imported breeds
Outputs
- Food quality and quantity
- Pollutants: Runoff, greenhouse gases
- Consumer health impacts
- Soil quality changes over time
System Characteristics
- Diversity: Monoculture vs. polyculture
- Sustainability: Long-term viability
- Species use: Indigenous vs. introduced
Environmental Impacts
- Pollution: Air, water, and soil contamination
- Habitat loss: Deforestation, wetland drainage
- Soil erosion: Loss of topsoil
