Agriculture is an important part of human life, which has shaped civilization. Many types and methods of agriculture have evolved over time, of which two major types of Agriculture are: Conventional Agriculture and Sustainable Agriculture. In this article we will understand both these farming methods in detail, also consider their Characteristics, Advantages and Disadvantages.
Types of Agriculture
There are two different types of Agriculture/Farming 1. Conventional Agriculture and 2. Sustainable Agriculture.
Conventional Agriculture
Conventional agriculture is that farming method which is based on extensive use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and modern equipment. This agricultural method has been prevalent on a large scale since the middle of the 20th century and its main objective is to maximize agricultural production.
Characteristics
Altering or modifying the natural environment: Removing trees, tilling the soil, installing an irrigation system etc.
Use of Chemicals:
In this method, chemical fertilizers and pesticides are used on a large scale, which leads to higher yields.
Using plant protection chemicals which are not only poisonous to insects, animals and humans, but also pollute groundwater, streams, rivers and oceans.
Use of technology:
Agricultural machinery like tractors, harvesters are used to make the farming process faster.
Monoculture:
In traditional agriculture, the same crop is grown repeatedly, which is called monoculture.
Using inorganic fertilizer:
Using inorganic fertilizers as the source of nutrients to crops.
Advantages of Conventional Agriculture
High Production Capacity:
In traditional farming method, the rate of food production is higher, which increases the food supply.
Economic Benefits:
Farmers get economic benefits due to large scale production.
Disadvantages of Conventional Agriculture
Effects of conventional agriculture include -
• Since the crop area is stripped of its natural environmental features, the crop are vulnerable to disease, high herbivore predation and soil erosion.
• A decrease in biodiversity means many animals lose their habitat and either relocate or become extinct.
• After harvesting the plot is empty, leaving the soil bare and prone to soil erosion.
• Excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides reduces soil fertility and increases water, air, and soil pollution.
• Crop disease, drought, fire or heavy rainfall can destroy a crop leading to food shortage and increased price.
Sustainable Agriculture
Sustainable agriculture is a method in which natural resources are conserved and the production process is in accordance with environmental balance. The main objective of this method is to produce food by causing minimal harm to the environment.
Characteristics
Maintaining the Natural Resources:
In this method, soil, water and biodiversity are conserved so that the environment remains balanced.
Use of organic fertilizers and natural pesticides:
Instead of chemical fertilizers, organic fertilizers and natural pesticides are used, which keeps the environment safe.
Multicropping System:
In sustainable agriculture, planting many crops together rather than in separate plots, different crops are grown in rotation, which maintains soil fertility and reduces the impact of pests.
Water Saving and Conservation:
In this method water resources are used properly, thereby saving water.
Less energy is require:
Less energy is required from the farmer because the agriculture system sustains itself.
Advantages of Sustainable Agriculture
• In this method, the using ecological principles, use of multi-cropping system and natural methods promotes biodiversity.
• Diversity is maintained and even increased over time.
• The use of organic fertilizers maintains the fertility of the soil for a long time.
• Sustainable farming method does not harm the environment, due to which the natural balance is maintained.
• Since herbicides and pesticides are not used, pollution and the harmful effects of ingesting these poisons are not an issue.
• Farmers experience less or no economic loss with this type of agriculture system because the natural environment protects itself from crop disease, soil erosion, droughts and other abnormalities.
Disadvantages of Sustainable Agriculture
Low production:
Sustainable agriculture has lower production rates than conventional agriculture.
Initial investment higher :
Initial costs may be high due to the use of organic fertilizers and natural pesticides.
Difference between conventional and sustainable agriculture
| Conventional agriculture | Sustainable Agriculture | |
|---|---|---|
| Fertilizers | Use of Chemical Fertilizers | Use of Organic Manure and Fertilizers |
| Environmental impacts | Unsafe | Safe |
| Crop Yield | High Production | Low Production |
| Food Quality | Inorganic | Organic |
Conclusion
Both conventional and sustainable agriculture have their own advantages and disadvantages. While traditional agriculture has high production potential, it also harms the environment. Sustainable agriculture, on the other hand, is environmentally friendly, but its production efficiency is low. In the coming times, it will be necessary to promote sustainable agriculture keeping in mind the balance of food security and environmental protection.
0 Comments