1. Introduction
Over the past two decades several problems associated with modern agriculture have generated increased concern in New Zealand, as elsewhere. Notable among these are soil erosion, soil treading and compaction, water pollution from nutrient run off, and pest control and weed infestation. Many farmers have also faced reduced farm incomes as a result of low market prices and rising input costs. In New Zealand, as elsewhere, sustainable agriculture has emerged as a loosely defined term for approaches to cope with these and other problems.
The approaches inherent in sustainable agriculture require that farmers learn new knowledge and skills. Of course, over the decades, farmers have repeatedly been required to take on new challenges and there is no reason to believe that, with appropriate support, the challenge of sustainable agriculture can not be met as well. While commonly viewed as a "natural resource based industry" the New Zealand agricultural sector is a product of generations of research and knowledge skilfully applied by farmers to great effect. In current parlance this makes New Zealand agriculture well poised for a leadership role in a knowledge-based economy.
Securing sustainable agriculture is about "adding value". The package of approaches involved is designed to address specific problems and secure a series of economic, environmental, social and cultural objectives. The concept of sustainability is itself derived from increased scientific understanding of our global environment and long standing philosophical and political ideals. It builds on the initiative and enterprise demonstrated by individual farmers as they continue to evolve in their perceived role as custodians of the resources of their farm. Sustainability also serves to highlight the goals of landowners, resource users, consumers and community in a common vision of environmental, economic and social sustainability for rural New Zealand.
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