Sustainability of Terrestrial Food Production Systems (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS))

Sustainability of Terrestrial Food Production Systems

• Sustainability in terrestrial food production systems is a complex challenge influenced by various factors, including scale, industrialisation, fossil fuel use, seed and livestock choices, water management, fertiliser use, pest control, pollinators, antibiotics, government policies, and the balance between commercial and subsistence food production

  • It is crucial to understand the implications of these factors for developing strategies that promote resilient, environmentally-friendly, and socially equitable food systems

  • By examining each factor in detail, it is possible to gain insights into the complexities and opportunities involved in creating sustainable terrestrial food production systems

Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash 

Organic farming may be more sustainable than industrial farming, but yields can be compromised

Scale

• The scale of food production systems plays a crucial role in their sustainability:

  • Large-scale industrial agriculture tends to rely heavily on intensive practices that can have negative environmental impacts, making them unsustainable

  • On the other hand, smaller-scale and localised food production systems often prioritise sustainable practices such as organic farming, biodiversity conservation, and reduced resource consumption

Industrialisation and Mechanisation

• The industrialisation and mechanisation of food production have led to increased efficiency and higher yields

  • However, these practices can also contribute to environmental degradation, soil erosion, and habitat destruction

  • Balancing the benefits of mechanisation with sustainable practices is essential for long-term food system sustainability

Fossil Fuel Use

• The reliance on fossil fuels for transportation, machinery, and the production of synthetic fertilisers has significant implications for the sustainability of food production

  • The combustion of fossil fuels contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change

  • Transitioning to renewable energy sources and promoting energy-efficient practices can help reduce the carbon footprint of food production

Photo by Melissa Askew on Unsplash 

Monocultures and genetically uniform crops such as wheat can lead to increased vulnerability to pests, diseases, and crop failure

Seed/Crop/Livestock Choices

• The selection of seeds, crops, and livestock breeds affects the sustainability of food production systems
  

  • Diversifying crop varieties, promoting seeds of indigenous species, and supporting resilient livestock breeds can enhance the long-term sustainability and resilience of food systems

Water Use

• Efficient water management is critical for sustainable food production

  • Excessive irrigation can deplete water resources and degrade aquatic ecosystems

  • Implementation of water-saving technologies, optimisation of irrigation practices, and promotion water-conserving crop varieties can help mitigate water scarcity issues and improve the sustainability of food production systems

Fertilisers

• The use of synthetic fertilisers in agriculture can lead to nutrient runoff, water pollution, and soil degradation

  • Sustainable nutrient management practices, such as organic fertilisers, cover cropping, and crop rotation, can reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers and promote soil health

Pest Control

• Traditional pest control methods often rely on chemical pesticides, which can have adverse effects on ecosystems and, in some cases, human health

  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches that combine various pest control methods, such as biological control, crop rotation, and cultural practices, can minimise the use of chemical pesticides and promote ecological balance

Photo by David Clode on Unsplash 

Pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, play a crucial role in food production

Pollinators

• Ensuring the conservation of pollinators through habitat preservation, reduced pesticide use, and diversified agricultural landscapes is vital for sustainable food systems

Antibiotics

• In livestock production, the overuse of antibiotics can lead to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, potentially posing risks to human health

  • Implementing responsible antibiotic use practices, promoting animal welfare, and exploring alternative disease management strategies, can support sustainable livestock production

Government Policy and Legislation

• Government policies and legislation greatly influence the sustainability of food production systems

  • Supportive policies that incentivise sustainable practices, protect natural resources, promote biodiversity, and ensure fair trade can contribute to a more sustainable food system

Commercial vs. Subsistence Food Production

• Balancing commercial food production with subsistence agriculture is essential for food security and sustainability

  • Prioritising local food systems, supporting small-scale farmers, and reducing dependence on global commodity markets can enhance food sovereignty, promote resilient communities, and reduce the ecological footprint of food production

• All of the factors outlined above interact in complex ways, and addressing them collectively is crucial for achieving sustainable terrestrial food production systems that balance environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic viability