#Deep Agroecology

[thecalloftheland]

2023: The Year of Agroecolgy (again)

2023: The Year of Agroecolgy (again)

As a citizen of Earth who reads the news, I feel compelled to raise my voice and declare 2023 to be The Year of Agroecology. Once again. Twelve months ago I declared 2022 to be The Year, but it’s plain that the global vision of agroecology and the actions to make it real are all the more imperative now.Considering the state of the food world, I have not the patience to wait for some government or…

[sembulapeyalneerpol]

knowing the context and history of just transition which is rooted in the labor and environmental justice movements in the u.s, and is essentially an ecosocialist framing, to see how it has been diluted and proliferated globally is startling. i know, because i experience this stateside, that the ruling class will capture and defang radical frameworks and theories. just transition is no different but there is an attempt here to fight back against that but seeing the malaysian government adopt the framework and the ceo of cimb using it??? insane

[justalittlesolarpunk]

I’ve teased it. You’ve waited. I’ve procrastinated. You’ve probably forgotten all about it.

But now, finally, I’m here with my solarpunk resources masterpost!

YouTube Channels:

Andrewism

The Solarpunk Scene

Solarpunk Life

Solarpunk Station

Our Changing Climate

Podcasts:

The Joy Report

How To Save A Planet

Demand Utopia

Solarpunk Presents

Outrage and Optimisim

From What If To What Next

Solarpunk Now

Idealistically

The Extinction Rebellion Podcast

The Landworkers' Radio

Wilder

What Could Possibly Go Right?

Frontiers of Commoning

The War on Cars

The Rewild Podcast

Solacene

Imagining Tomorrow

Books (Fiction):

Ursula K. Le Guin: The Left Hand of Darkness The Dispossessed The Word for World is Forest

Becky Chambers: A Psalm for the Wild-Built A Prayer for the Crown-Shy

Phoebe Wagner: When We Hold Each Other Up

Phoebe Wagner, Bronte Christopher Wieland: Sunvault: Stories of Solarpunk and Eco-Speculation

Brenda J. Pierson: Wings of Renewal: A Solarpunk Dragon Anthology

Gerson Lodi-Ribeiro: Solarpunk: Ecological and Fantastical Stories in a Sustainable World

Justine Norton-Kertson: Bioluminescent: A Lunarpunk Anthology

Sim Kern: The Free People’s Village

Ruthanna Emrys: A Half-Built Garden

Sarina Ulibarri: Glass & Gardens

Books (Non-fiction):

Murray Bookchin: The Ecology of Freedom

George Monbiot: Feral

Miles Olson: Unlearn, Rewild

Mark Shepard: Restoration Agriculture

Kristin Ohlson: The Soil Will Save Us

Rowan Hooper: How To Spend A Trillion Dollars

Anna Lowenhaupt Tsing: The Mushroom At The End of The World

Kimberly Nicholas: Under The Sky We Make

Robin Wall Kimmerer: Braiding Sweetgrass

David Miller: Solved

Ayana Johnson, Katharine Wilkinson: All We Can Save

Jonathan Safran Foer: We Are The Weather

Colin Tudge: Six Steps Back To The Land

Edward Wilson: Half-Earth

Natalie Fee: How To Save The World For Free

Kaden Hogan: Humans of Climate Change

Rebecca Huntley: How To Talk About Climate Change In A Way That Makes A Difference

Christiana Figueres, Tom Rivett-Carnac: The Future We Choose

Jonathon Porritt: Hope In Hell

Paul Hawken: Regeneration

Mark Maslin: How To Save Our Planet

Katherine Hayhoe: Saving Us

Jimmy Dunson: Building Power While The Lights Are Out

Paul Raekstad, Sofa Saio Gradin: Prefigurative Politics

Andreas Malm: How To Blow Up A Pipeline

Phoebe Wagner, Bronte Christopher Wieland: Almanac For The Anthropocene

Chris Turner: How To Be A Climate Optimist

William MacAskill: What We Owe To The Future

Mikaela Loach: It's Not That Radical

Miles Richardson: Reconnection

David Harvey: Spaces of Hope Rebel Cities

Eric Holthaus: The Future Earth

Zahra Biabani: Climate Optimism

David Ehrenfeld: Becoming Good Ancestors

Stephen Gliessman: Agroecology

Chris Carlsson: Nowtopia

Jon Alexander: Citizens

Leah Thomas: The Intersectional Environmentalist

Greta Thunberg: The Climate Book

Jen Bendell, Rupert Read: Deep Adaptation

Seth Godin: The Carbon Almanac

Jane Goodall: The Book of Hope

Vandana Shiva: Agroecology and Regenerative Agriculture

Amitav Ghosh: The Great Derangement

Minouche Shafik: What We Owe To Each Other

Dieter Helm: Net Zero

Chris Goodall: What We Need To Do Now

Aldo Leopold: A Sand County Almanac

Jeffrey Jerome Cohen, Stephanie Foote: The Cambridge Companion To The Environmental Humanities

Bella Lack: The Children of The Anthropocene

Hannah Ritchie: Not The End of The World

Chris Turner: How To Be A Climate Optimist

Kim Stanley Robinson: Ministry For The Future

Fiona Mathews, Tim Kendall: Black Ops & Beaver Bombing

Jeff Goodell: The Water Will Come

Lynne Jones: Sorry For The Inconvenience But This Is An Emergency

Helen Crist: Abundant Earth

Sam Bentley: Good News, Planet Earth!

Timothy Beal: When Time Is Short

Andrew Boyd: I Want A Better Catastrophe

Kristen R. Ghodsee: Everyday Utopia

Elizabeth Cripps: What Climate Justice Means & Why We Should Care

Kylie Flanagan: Climate Resilience

Chris Johnstone, Joanna Macy: Active Hope

Mark Engler: This is an Uprising

Anne Therese Gennari: The Climate Optimist Handbook

Magazines:

Solarpunk Magazine

Positive News

Resurgence & Ecologist

Ethical Consumer

Films (Fiction):

How To Blow Up A Pipeline

The End We Start From

Woman At War

Black Panther

Star Trek

Tomorrowland

Films (Documentary):

2040: How We Can Save The Planet

The People vs Big Oil

Wild Isles

The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind

Generation Green New Deal

Planet Earth III

Video Games:

Terra Nil

Animal Crossing

Gilded Shadows

Anno 2070

Stardew Valley

RPGs:

Solarpunk Futures

Perfect Storm

Advocacy Groups:

A22 Network

Extinction Rebellion

Greenpeace

Friends of The Earth

Green New Deal Rising

Apps:

Ethy

Sojo

BackMarket

Depop

Vinted

Olio

Buy Nothing

Too Good To Go

Websites:

European Co-housing

UK Co-housing

US Co-housing

Brought By Bike (connects you with zero-carbon delivery goods)

ClimateBase (find a sustainable career)

Environmentjob (ditto)

Businesses (🤢):

Ethical Superstore

Hodmedods

Fairtransport/Sail Cargo Alliance

Let me know if you think there’s anything I’ve missed!

[left-reminders]

(Below are broad vibes for each of the numbers. They are not meant to represent every opinion one could have within those parameters. Some aspects of the description may apply to you while others won't. If you picked a number with a description that doesn't match your perspective, let us know what your actual perspective is in a reblog comment! Comments in general are nice too, of course 👍)

(You also might notice a bias in favor of 5; or at least a far deeper description of what it would entail when compared against the other four. This is partly just because I wanted to soapbox, but I hope it doesn't detract. I genuinely want to hear the perspectives of the 1s, 2s, and 3s, if you're out there and don't appreciate my potential oversimplification!)

1 — It does not factor in at all. Much of the discourse around green politics is a liberal distraction and/or a roadblock holding us back from organizing for socialism. Economic development and human concerns will always matter more. Capitalism was a necessary/justifiable component in the march of history towards socialism, even if it did have certain negative impacts on the environment. The ideal society looks like Star Trek or fully-automated luxury communism (FALC) — one where we overcome "the state of nature" and become masters of our own fate.

2 — It doesn't factor in much, even if I may recognize the reality of climate change and/or the need for environmental protections. We can solve the biggest climate problems with advancements in green technology or perhaps expanding resource frontiers into outer space. In general, other social issues take priority when building socialism.

3 — I care about combating climate change and solving ecological problems, but I find other issues to be more important in my life and I will leave most discussion of it to people more knowledgeable on the subject. The world could be doing far better on these issues and changes are needed, but most of the modern civilizational infrastructure should remain unchanged (albeit organized under a socialist mode of production).

4 — It is very important to my politics. We can balance socialistic technological development with the dire needs of a planet in crisis. Certain human activities and production methods will have to be curbed or eliminated entirely if we are to find this balance (fossil fuels, widget production, private jets, etc), while others will have to be uplifted (renewable energy, public transportation, shared living, etc). Modern civilization is ultimately redeemable, but it needs to undergo a radical transformation.

5 — It is among the most important factors in my politics. I take influence from eco-socialism, social ecology, degrowth, post-civ, anti-civ, deep ecology, or any number of other political perspectives which are ecologically-focused. Locally-organized economies; drastic reductions in working hours and energy throughput; rewilding of the land; emphasis on non-consumptive forms of leisure; an end to consumerism, growth-based economic metrics, and imperial conceptions of "development"; agroecology and polyculture as core methods for obtaining food; and a vast deconstruction of much of the civilizational edifice are all pieces to this puzzle and are required if we are going to have a habitable planet for the generations to come. The ideal society looks like a Miyazaki film, that yogurt commercial, or lightly-automated comfortable ecological socialism (LACES) — one where we "don't seek to become larger within socialism, but rather more realized" (Joel Kovel).

[probablyasocialecologist]

Far from escaping significant human modification, areas mapped as wilderness across tropical biomes have been profoundly shaped by humans in deep time, and continue to be occupied and used by diverse Indigenous and local populations today. For example, the Amazon is thought to be a center for the domestication of over 80 crop species, including many that humans rely on today, such as cassava (Manihot esculenta), wild rice (Oryza sp.), peanuts (Arachis hypogaea), and chili (Capsicum baccatum). The domestication and cultivation of these key crop species resulted in substantial human impact over the composition and structure of soils and forests in these landscapes that continue to support significant agroecological diversity today. Despite clear human intervention in the Amazon forest system for millennia, Indigenous and local peoples’ use of these forests have promoted biodiversity and maintained forest structure. On the other side of the globe, the application of swidden agriculture—a way of farming involving rotational clearing, burning, and fallow that has been used for millennia and today supports between 14 and 34 million highlanders in tropical South and Southeast Asia —is thought to have played an important role in shaping the structure and resilience of forests, as well as maintaining diverse ecosystem services.

Indigenous knowledge and the shackles of wilderness

[solarpunkbusiness]

Welcome to Herdade do Freixo do Meio, a 600-hectare community farm in Alentejo, Portugal. Run by a cooperative, the farm prides itself on agroecological food production that is local, responsible and conscious. It’s an experiment in sociocracy, and so the Letters from the Farm will be written collectively, with different members of the cooperative taking turns to pick up the pen.

This first letter is by Alfredo Sendim, who inherited the farm from his mother. Alfredo explains how the farm is building resilience through a collective approach, reconnecting with ecosystems and community. It’s a model of cooperation with nature inspired by the ancient agroforestry system of “montado”.

Cooperation with nature

For more than thirty years I’ve been asking myself, what does “being a farmer” mean to me? How should I interact with the space? Rejecting dogmas, the results of the anthropocentric attitude, pushed me a long time ago to the hypothesis that I am just one element of a macroorganism called Gaia.

Since then, I have been experimenting with deep agroecology in the Herdade do Freixo do Meio farm where I live, trying a model of true cooperation with nature, based on the ancient agroforestry system of “montado” (cork tree landscape).

More and more, the Project of Nature is my daily inspiration, which I seek to serve in co-creation with all wild and domestic beings. I want to live in a world based on peaceful, cooperative, self-resilient, communities. I’m looking for the “Allowed Fruit” as opposed to the classic “Forbidden Fruit”.

The universe of multifunctionality and biodiversity in the ancestral forest of oaks around me is a fertile field of personal and spiritual growth that showed me the evidence that you should not be a farmer alone. That’s probably only a human concept. We are, of course, all connected.

[wispstalk]

⭐ for the Nature of Fire?

I could just go on and on about Highcross. Probably my favorite of the little villages. I think the characters of Mirili, Bruscus, and Runs-in-Circles were clumsy attempts at depicting autism, OCD, and ADHD respectively but since that describes my most powerful friend groups I decided they all co-run a little farming operation in ways that play to their strengths. Being deep in my local permaculture scene I can confirm that all the most excellent gardens are the result of harnessed mental disorder lmao

Ain't no one in the Shivering Isles around to tell you to do things the way they've always been done, so Highcross is like, the cutting edge of agroecology in the elder scrolls world.

[worldecologyday]

Ten principles that underpin ecosystem restoration.

Towards this end, UN Decade partners engaged in a multi-stage process to develop principles for ecosystem restoration. The process began with a synthesis of published principles for distinct types of restorative activities. The synthesis was then used during an expert consultation process, to identify priority themes and to inform an initial, draft set of principles. These were widely shared through an online global consultation process; feedback from the consultation informed the development of the final principles presented here. The principles are broadly based on the Ecosystem Approach and the Short-Term Action Plan for Ecosystem Restoration (STAPER), both adopted by the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), as well as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)’s Principles for Nature-Based Solutions,Principles for Ecosystem-Based Approaches, Principles for a Landscape Approach, Principles for Forest and Landscape Restoration,the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER)’s International Principles and Standards for the Practice of Ecological Restoration, the IUCN Commission on Ecosystem Management (CEM)´s Rewilding Principles, and FAO´s Principles and Approaches for Sustainable Food and Agriculture, Agroecology, Sustainable Land Management and the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries. The ten principles for ecosystem restoration include a first principle that orients restoration in the context of the UN Decade, followed by nine best-practice principles. These best-practice principles detail the essential tenets of ecosystem restoration that should be followed to maximize net gain for native biodiversity, ecosystem health and integrity, and human health and well-being, across all biomes, sectors and regions. The principles are complementary and should, therefore, be read and considered altogether. Regardless of the type of land ownership and the types of stakeholders engaged, these principles can improve restoration outcomes for all types of projects, programmes and initiatives. As an overarching guideline, it is important to note that while ecosystem restoration and other nature based solutions are essential for, inter alia, climate change mitigation, biodiversity protection and land degradation neutrality, restoration is not a substitute solution for conservation, nor for a rapid and deep decarbonization of the world’s economy. As such, investments in restoration in the context of climate action must be based on sound science-based targets and a clear pathway towards net zero emissions. Ecosystem restoration and the sound stewardship of nature can only be successful, in the long term, in the context of a wider socio-economic transition towards a nature-positive economy, by decoupling economic growth from unsustainable use of natural resources, and detoxifying and decarbonizing economic activity.

[finishinglinepress]

FLP CHAPBOOK OF THE DAY: The Hundredth Hour by Kitt Healy

On SALE now! Pre-order Price Guarantee: https://www.finishinglinepress.com/product/the-hundredth-hour-by-kitt-healy/

The Hundredth Hour explores the experience of becoming a #mother, in all of its delirium, joy, magic and brutality. The #poems are both heartfelt and absurd, particular and universal. They both describe and embody the deep weirdness of suddenly arriving on the strange planet that is #parenthood, where the socks will never match, the hours both race and stall, and a kind of unhinged love sets up shop at the center of one’s self, changing us for better, for worse, forever.

Kitt Healy is a mother, writer, facilitator and movement strategist for sustainable agriculture organizations. She is of Irish, German and Sicilian settler descent and currently lives on the present and ancestral lands of the Ho-Chunk people in Madison, WI. She has an MS in Agroecology from UW-Madison and a BA in Political and Social Thought from University of Virginia. When her hands are not writing, they are likely busy planting seeds, sprinkling herbs on something tasty, or wrangling her two rascally children.

PRAISE FOR The Hundredth Hour by Kitt Healy

With wonder, ritual, and irreverence, Kitt Healy‘s The Hundredth Hour is an offering of her own spiritual and animal births. While each poem is deft and deeply curious, it is in the collage of these individual revelations that Healy also offers a healing-justice blueprint for the communal future we build with and of our bodies. Whether in the liminal between infant breath and bath steam, or the intricacies of maternal grief mirrored on a yellow-pollened river, The Hundredth Hour invites us to hold both our ordinary and our holy dreams close.

–Tegan Nia Swanson, Things We Found When the Water Went Down

Kitt Healy‘s words are a love letter to those in the heights and depths of early motherhood. They connect us through deliberate celebration of inner wisdom, grit, loneliness, and metamorphosis. The Hundredth Hour shines a light on an inner universe that sometimes feels beyond our sight.

–Laura Williams, PT, DPT, WCS, Founder of Hearth Healing

Please share/please repost

#flpauthor #preorder #AwesomeCoverArt #poetry #chapbook #read #poems

[kavyaorganicfarm19]

Agroecology And Sustainable Food Systems: Lessons Learned from Indigenous Knowledge

In the realm of agriculture, a paradigm shift is underway. As we grapple with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, there's a growing recognition of the importance of agroecology and sustainable food systems. Drawing inspiration from indigenous knowledge, these approaches offer valuable lessons in nurturing the land while ensuring food security. Let's explore the principles of agroecology and the wisdom of indigenous practices in creating a more sustainable future.

Honoring Indigenous Knowledge:

Indigenous communities around the world have long been stewards of the land, practicing sustainable farming methods passed down through generations. Their deep connection to nature and traditional wisdom offer invaluable insights into fostering biodiversity, conserving resources, and cultivating resilience in the face of environmental uncertainties.

Agroecology: A Holistic Approach:

Agroecology embodies a holistic approach to agriculture, integrating ecological principles with social and economic considerations. It emphasizes the importance of biodiversity, soil health, and ecosystem resilience in promoting sustainable food systems. By mimicking natural ecosystems and leveraging traditional knowledge, agroecology offers a path towards regenerative agriculture that nourishes both people and the planet.

Lessons Learned from Indigenous Practices:

Indigenous farming practices are rooted in harmony with nature, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living beings. From polyculture farming to agroforestry techniques, these practices prioritize diversity, resilience, and community cooperation. By observing and adapting these methods, modern agriculture can enhance productivity while reducing reliance on external inputs and minimizing environmental impact.

Challenges and Opportunities:

Despite their proven efficacy, agroecology and indigenous farming practices face numerous challenges, including land tenure issues, lack of institutional support, and market access barriers. However, these challenges also present opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and policy advocacy. By empowering indigenous communities, investing in agroecological research, and creating enabling policy environments, we can overcome these obstacles and foster a more sustainable food system.

The Role of Kavya Organic Farm:

As a champion of sustainable agriculture, Kavya Organic Farm is committed to integrating agroecological principles and indigenous knowledge into its farming practices. By prioritizing biodiversity, soil health, and community engagement, the farm aims to create a model of regenerative agriculture that serves as a beacon of hope for the future. Through its initiatives in organic farming, permaculture, and farmer training, Kavya Organic Farm is leading the way towards a more sustainable and resilient food system.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Agroecology And Sustainable Food Systems offer invaluable lessons in building sustainable food systems that nurture both people and the planet. By embracing these principles and practices, we can create a future where agriculture thrives in harmony with nature, ensuring food security, ecological resilience, and social equity for generations to come. Together, let's honor the wisdom of indigenous communities and cultivate a brighter tomorrow.

Kavya Organic Farm is committed to harnessing the power of agroecology and indigenous knowledge to create a more sustainable food system. Join us in nurturing nature and fostering resilience through regenerative agriculture!

[jassicaleo318]

Mexico Corn Market: Tradition, Innovation, and Sustainable Growth

The Mexico Corn Market encompasses the cultivation, production, trade, and consumption of corn (maize) within Mexico, a country with a deep-rooted cultural and economic connection to this staple crop. This article provides an overview of the Mexico Corn Market, covering its historical significance, production dynamics, consumption patterns, trade relationships, and key challenges.

Historical Significance

Corn holds profound cultural, nutritional, and economic significance in Mexico, dating back thousands of years to pre-Columbian civilizations such as the Aztecs, Maya, and Olmecs. Known as "elote" in its fresh form and "maíz" in its dried form, corn has been a dietary staple and symbol of sustenance, fertility, and identity for indigenous communities across Mexico. Its cultivation and consumption played a central role in the development of Mesoamerican civilizations and continue to shape Mexican cuisine, traditions, and agricultural practices to this day.

Production Dynamics

Mexico is among the world's largest producers of corn, with a diverse range of varieties cultivated across different regions and climatic zones. The country's corn production is characterized by a mix of smallholder farmers, commercial enterprises, and agribusiness corporations, each contributing to the overall supply chain. Major corn-producing states in Mexico include Sinaloa, Jalisco, Chiapas, and Oaxaca, with varying levels of mechanization, irrigation, and agroecological practices employed depending on local conditions.

Consumption Patterns

Corn is a dietary staple in Mexico, consumed in various forms such as tortillas, tamales, pozole, and atole, among others. Tortillas, in particular, are a ubiquitous element of Mexican cuisine, serving as the foundation for countless dishes and meals. Corn-based snacks, beverages, and processed foods are also popular among Mexican consumers, reflecting the versatility and cultural importance of this grain in everyday life.

Trade Relationships

Mexico's corn market is influenced by both domestic production and international trade dynamics. While the country is largely self-sufficient in corn production, it also imports significant quantities of yellow corn, primarily for use as animal feed and in industrial processes such as ethanol production. The United States is the primary supplier of imported corn to Mexico, owing to geographical proximity, trade agreements such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), and market integration between the two countries.

Key Challenges

The Mexico Corn Market faces several challenges that impact production, trade, and food security:

Climate Change: Variability in weather patterns, including droughts, floods, and extreme temperatures, poses risks to corn cultivation in Mexico, affecting yields, crop quality, and farmer livelihoods. Climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies are needed to enhance resilience and sustainability in the face of environmental challenges.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): The introduction of genetically modified corn varieties has sparked debate and controversy in Mexico, where traditional landraces and biodiversity are valued. Concerns about genetic contamination, loss of indigenous knowledge, and corporate control of seeds have led to calls for stricter regulations and protection of Mexico's corn heritage.

Market Concentration: Consolidation within the agribusiness sector, including seed companies, agrochemical suppliers, and grain traders, can limit market access and bargaining power for smallholder farmers, exacerbating inequalities in the Mexico Corn Market. Policies to promote fair competition, support rural livelihoods, and empower farmers are essential for fostering a more inclusive and equitable agricultural sector.

Food Sovereignty: Ensuring food sovereignty, defined as the right of peoples to control their own food systems, is a critical issue in Mexico, where corn is deeply intertwined with cultural identity and national sovereignty. Safeguarding traditional farming practices, promoting agroecology, and empowering local communities to protect and manage their seeds are fundamental to preserving Mexico's corn heritage and achieving food security for all.

Sustainability Initiatives

Amidst growing concerns about environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, and climate change, sustainability initiatives are gaining momentum within the Mexico Corn Market. Agroecological practices, such as conservation agriculture, organic farming, and crop diversification, are promoted to enhance soil health, conserve water resources, and reduce reliance on agrochemical inputs. Agroforestry systems, incorporating trees and shrubs into corn fields, contribute to ecosystem resilience, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity conservation. Moreover, certification schemes such as organic and fair trade certifications provide market incentives for sustainable corn production and support farmers in accessing premium markets.

Innovation and Research

Research and innovation play crucial roles in driving productivity gains, resilience, and competitiveness within the Mexico Corn Market. Public and private sector investments in agricultural research, breeding programs, and biotechnology aim to develop improved corn varieties with traits such as drought tolerance, disease resistance, and nutritional quality. Collaborative research initiatives between universities, research institutions, and industry partners focus on addressing specific challenges facing Mexican farmers, such as pests and diseases, soil degradation, and climate variability. Furthermore, extension services, farmer field schools, and technology transfer programs facilitate the adoption of best practices and innovative technologies among smallholder farmers, empowering them to enhance productivity and livelihoods.

Market Access and Distribution

Access to markets and distribution channels is critical for farmers to sell their corn produce and generate income. In Mexico, corn is marketed through various channels, including traditional markets, cooperatives, agribusinesses, and government procurement programs. Infrastructure investments in roads, transportation, and storage facilities are essential for facilitating the efficient movement of corn from rural production areas to urban centers and export terminals. Moreover, efforts to strengthen market linkages, improve market information systems, and enhance value chain coordination contribute to market efficiency, price transparency, and income opportunities for farmers.

[thecalloftheland]

Literary Lights and ChatGPT shine on Deep Agroecology

Thanks to the enterprise and good graces of the New Mexico Book Association (NMBA), I’ve been invited to a reception Celebrating New Mexico Writers at the convention center in our stucco-studded capital city. The New Mexico Writers’ Reception is an opening event for the Santa Fe International Literary Festival. My book Deep Agroecology: Farms, Food, and Our Future is what secured the…

[bizzna-pop]

Nurturing Our Planet: The Vital Role of Sustainable Farmlands

In the modern narrative of environmental conservation, sustainable farmlands are emerging as key players in the quest to rejuvenate our ecosystems. Far from their traditional roles as mere providers of sustenance, these lands are undergoing a transformation. They are becoming crucibles of innovation where agriculture meets ecological stewardship head-on. This shift towards sustainable practices is not just about securing our food supply; it's a concerted effort to mend the fabric of our ecosystems, blending productivity with profound environmental consciousness.

Agroecology: Farming with Nature

At the forefront of this agricultural evolution is agroecology, a concept that champions the fusion of farming and ecological science. This innovative approach reimagines farmlands as vibrant ecosystems where sustainable agriculture is the norm, not the exception. It's a place where the health of our planet is as important as the crops we grow.

The Bounty of Biodiversity: Life in Harmony

The era of uniform, single-crop fields is being replaced by a mosaic of biodiversity. Practices such as polyculture and agroforestry are bringing life back to the land, establishing ecosystems that are robust, self-sustaining, and rich in variety. This shift not only beautifies the landscape but also fortifies it against the challenges of climate change.

Soil: The Foundation of Life

Soil is the unsung hero in our fight against environmental degradation. By adopting regenerative farming practices, such as no-till agriculture and the use of cover crops, sustainable farmlands are turning soil into a potent carbon storage tool, helping to curb global warming and breathe life back into degraded lands.

Guardians of the Waterways

Sustainable farms are adopting natural water management strategies, like the use of riparian buffers, to protect and purify our water sources. These living barriers are vital in preserving the health of our rivers and lakes, ensuring that clean water remains a right, not a privilege.

Forests and Fields: A New Alliance

The integration of trees into agricultural landscapes, known as agroforestry, is proving to be a game-changer. This practice not only enhances the farm's biodiversity but also improves soil health, water retention, and carbon sequestration, illustrating the symbiotic relationship between forestry and farming.

Welcoming Wildlife: Sanctuaries of Diversity

By thoughtfully managing their lands, farmers are turning their fields into refuges for wildlife, offering a haven for species that are struggling to survive in an increasingly industrialized world. These practices underscore the role of sustainable farmlands in preserving our planet's biodiversity.

Cultivating Knowledge: Farms as Community Hubs

Sustainable farmlands are more than just food producers; they're centers of learning and community engagement. By sharing their journey towards sustainability, these farms inspire others to embrace eco-friendly practices, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship that extends beyond their borders.

Permaculture: The Art of Ecological Farming

Permaculture goes beyond traditional farming techniques, offering a holistic approach that mimics the resilience of natural ecosystems. It's a testament to the ingenuity of sustainable farming, proving that with thoughtful design, agriculture can be both productive and harmonious with nature.

Conclusion: A Greener Path Forward

As we confront the dual challenges of feeding a growing population and preserving our planet, sustainable farmlands offer a beacon of hope. By embracing innovative agricultural practices and a deep commitment to ecological restoration, these lands are not just producing food—they're healing the earth. Sharanya Farm in Bangalore stands as a shining example of how sustainable farmlands can lead the way towards a more resilient and environmentally friendly future in agriculture.

[agricultureandfarming]

Organic Farming’s Green Revolution: Embracing Agroecology

Organic farming has emerged as a beacon of hope in the realm of agriculture, championing a green revolution that prioritizes sustainability and environmental stewardship. In stark contrast to conventional farming methods reliant on synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, organic farming embodies a holistic approach that nurtures the soil, preserves biodiversity, and safeguards human health. Let's delve into the transformative journey of organic farming and its profound impact on our planet.

The Essence of Organic Farming:

At the heart of organic farming lies a profound respect for nature's wisdom and resilience. By eschewing synthetic chemicals and embracing natural processes, organic farmers work in harmony with ecosystems rather than against them. Through techniques such as crop rotation, composting, and biological pest control, organic farming enriches soil fertility, mitigates erosion, and fosters biodiversity. The result is not merely higher yields but also a flourishing environment teeming with life.

Sustainability in Action:

One of the hallmarks of organic farming is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. By prioritizing renewable resources, minimizing waste, and reducing carbon footprint, organic agriculture sets a precedent for a more ecologically balanced future. From water conservation to energy efficiency, every aspect of organic farming reflects a deep-seated ethos of sustainability, ensuring that the land remains fertile and productive for generations to come.

Nurturing Health and Wellness:

Beyond environmental benefits, organic farming champions human health and wellness. By eliminating exposure to toxic chemicals present in conventional agriculture, organic produce offers consumers a safer and more nutritious alternative. Studies have shown that organic fruits and vegetables contain higher levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, bolstering immunity and overall well-being. Moreover, by eschewing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and synthetic additives, organic farming safeguards the integrity of our food supply, empowering individuals to make informed choices about what they eat.

Building Resilience in a Changing Climate:

In an era marked by climate uncertainty and ecological upheaval, organic farming emerges as a beacon of resilience. By fostering soil health, enhancing water retention, and promoting agroecological diversity, organic agriculture equips farmers with the tools to weather environmental challenges. From drought-resistant crops to regenerative practices that sequester carbon, organic farming offers practical solutions to mitigate the impact of climate change while ensuring food security for all.

Conclusion:

Organic farming's green revolution heralds a paradigm shift in our approach to food production, emphasizing harmony with nature, sustainability, and human well-being. As we stand at the crossroads of environmental crisis and agricultural transformation, the principles of organic farming offer a roadmap towards a brighter, more resilient future. By embracing the wisdom of nature and cultivating a deeper connection to the land, we can nourish both the earth and ourselves, sowing the seeds of a healthier, more sustainable world.

[spicysucculentz]

i GOTTA transfer asap oh my god I really went to the wrong school😭 I went to one of the smaller state universities instead of my states big main public university?? and I want to major in something ecology or agriculture based (double major most likely) I’m in the environmental something or other major at my school which SUCKS and has only like a handful of classes and they’re all about shit like drone mapping and public policy instead of ecology and biology and botany and agroecology. UGH! I could have submitted the transfer application for THIS fall and I almost did but then pussied out and figured I’d get a few more courses done here first but now I’m worrying that I won’t be able to get in the programs I want as a junior??? I have no idea I gotta call them up next week but I keep forgetting and I’m stressing like crazy. I’m already committed to housing for the full academic year though so I don’t even know if I can transfer for the spring?? even though after the fall semester I’ll have run out of relevant courses to take before getting too deep into this major that I don’t want

[reclaimallspaces]

In this enchanting realm where the Ndebele people have flourished independently of colonial influence, their profound understanding of agroecology and sustainable farming practices has propelled them towards a bountiful and regenerative agricultural system.

Intensive Crop Rotation and Polyculture: At the core of Ndebele farming lies the principle of intensive crop rotation and polyculture. They have meticulously designed intricate planting schedules that maximize the use of their fertile lands. By rotating crops in a strategic sequence, they mitigate soil depletion, enhance nutrient cycling, and minimize the risk of pests and diseases. Diverse crops are interplanted, creating mutually beneficial relationships where plants support and protect each other, fostering a resilient and productive ecosystem.

Preservation of Heirloom Varieties: The Ndebele people hold a deep reverence for their ancestral crops, preserving an extraordinary array of heirloom varieties that have been passed down through generations. These unique plant varieties embody centuries of wisdom, adaptability, and cultural significance. They have carefully safeguarded the seeds and cultivated them using organic methods, ensuring the continuation of this diverse genetic heritage. The Ndebele's commitment to preserving these heirloom crops not only maintains biodiversity but also strengthens their resilience to changing environmental conditions.

Permaculture and Food Forests: Inspired by nature's intricate patterns, the Ndebele have embraced permaculture principles to create self-sustaining food forests. Their lands are transformed into multi-layered ecosystems, where trees, shrubs, and vines harmoniously coexist with edible plants and beneficial organisms. This carefully designed agroforestry system emulates the natural forest structure, providing abundant food, shade, and habitat for wildlife. Through thoughtful planning and nurturing, the Ndebele have cultivated a balanced and regenerative food production model that requires minimal inputs and generates high yields.

Organic and Natural Farming Practices: In their commitment to sustainable agriculture, the Ndebele rely on organic and natural farming practices. They forgo the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilizers, opting instead for natural alternatives. Traditional knowledge and natural remedies are employed to manage pests and diseases, ensuring the health and vitality of their crops. Composting, vermiculture, and cover cropping enrich the soil, enhancing its fertility and structure. These practices not only minimize environmental harm but also yield nutritious and uncontaminated produce.

Community Seed Banks and Knowledge Sharing: Within this thriving Ndebele society, community seed banks play a vital role in preserving and sharing agricultural knowledge. These repositories safeguard a vast collection of seeds, ensuring their availability for future generations. The Ndebele prioritize the exchange of agricultural wisdom, organizing regular gatherings where experienced farmers pass down their knowledge to the younger members of the community. This intergenerational transfer of expertise strengthens their agricultural practices and reinforces their cultural identity.

In this captivating world, the Ndebele people have harnessed the principles of agroecology and sustainable farming to create a harmonious and resilient food system. Their reverence for the land, preservation of heirloom crops, and commitment to organic practices are testaments to their profound connection with nature and their determination to thrive in balance with the ecosystem. The Ndebele's agricultural practices serve as an inspiration to others, demonstrating the potential for regenerative farming to provide nutritious food, protect biodiversity, and foster a sustainable relationship between humans and the natural world.