Ecological farming is recognised as the high-end objective among the proponents of sustainable agriculture.[1] The goal of ecological farming is not only sustainable food production, but is to optimise the provision of ecosystem services[2], both in the design of the farm and by significant reduction of the ecological footprint made by the post-harvest consumers of the farm produce.
Contents |
Ecological farming involves the introduction of symbiotic species, where possible, to support the ecological sustainability of the farm. Associated benefits include a reduction in ecological debt and elimination of dead zones[3].
Ecological farming is a pioneering, practical development which aims to create globally sustainable land management systems, and encourages review of the importance of maintaining biodiversity in food production and farming end products[4].
One foreseeable option is a greater reliance on automation. Accordingly, conversion to ecological farming may best utilize the information age, and become recognised as a primary user of robotics and expert systems[5].
The challenge for ecological farming science, is to be able to achieve a mainstream productive food system that is sustainable. To enter the field of ecological farming, location relative to the consumer, is an important factor to help minimise transportation damage to the ecosystem.
Design of the ecological farm is initially constrained by the same limitations as traditional farming: local climate, soils, budget, manpower and available automations. however longterm water management by ecological farming methods is likely to conserve and increase water availability for the location..
Certain principles unique to ecological farming need to be considered.