EDUCATION
What is sustainability?
Sustainability seeks to address the three critical sections of environment, social, and economic needs. If you take an Introduction to Environmental Science course you will likely hear the quote from the Brundtland report (Our Common Future) in regards to sustainable development:
"Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
What is sustainable agriculture?
Sustainable agriculture seeks to incorporate farming practices that limit the impact to the environment, human health, animal welfare, and workers rights. While not all sustainable farms are certified "organic" they aim to treat their workers and animals in safe and ethical ways while limiting the impact on the health of the environment and the health of the consumer.
There are many ways to be a sustainable & educated consumer most of which come from thinking more about where your food comes from! Support local farmers and food vendors, look at packaging details including ingredients and processing locations, limit meat intake, and educate yourself on the impact of industrial and animal agriculture on both the environment and human health.
Sustainable Table is a great resource for information regarding the environmental impact of Industrial Agriculture. In addition to environmental impacts, sustainable table provides facts and information about human health, animal welfare, worker's rights, and economic impacts of the American food system. Sustainability links environmental, social, and economic factors.
