10 Sustainability Ibrahim Mohammed SUSTAINABILITY, ESPECIALLY IN THE CONTEXT OF AGRICULTURE, is often defined as the ability to meet essential societal needs indefinitely without causing significant negative impacts on the environment, economy, or society. This concept is not static but dynamic, requiring continuous adaptation and evolution to remain relevant in the face of changing conditions and emerging challenges. DEFINING AGRICULTURAL SUSTAINABILITY Agricultural sustainability is a multifaceted concept that integrates environmental stewardship, economic viability, and social responsibility. It is about ensuring that farming practices meet the current needs for food, fibre, and biofuels while preserving the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. To define sustainable agriculture, a collective vision of the future characteristics of agriculture is necessary, though this vision is often debated globally. Despite varying perspectives, four generally accepted goals can help define sustainable agriculture: 1SATISFY HUMAN NEEDS: The primary goal of agriculture is to meet the needs for food, feed, fibre, and biofuels. This involves producing enough to feed the global population while also contributing to other societal needs, such as renewable energy. 2ENHANCE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY: Agriculture must protect and enhance the natural resource base on which it depends. This includes maintaining soil health, conserving water, and protecting biodiversity. Sustainable practices are those that minimize environmental degradation and contribute to the long-term health of ecosystems. 3SUSTAIN ECONOMIC VIABILITY: This means farming practices should be profitable for farmers and provide them with a stable income, ensuring that agriculture can continue as a livelihood for future generations. 4ENHANCE QUALITY OF LIFE: Sustainability also involves improving the quality of life for farmers, farm workers, and society. This includes ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, access to resources, and promoting social justice and equity in the agricultural sector. What does sustainability mean? STEWARDSHIP, VIABILITY, AND RESPONSIBILITY
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