Sustainable Agriculture (Copy)
3.8 Sustainable Agriculture – Cheat Sheet
Strategies for Sustainable Agriculture
| Strategy | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Organic Fertiliser | Use of crop residues, manure, compost → improves soil fertility naturally, reduces chemical use | Composting in small-scale African farms |
| Managed Grazing (Livestock Rotation) | Moving animals between pastures to prevent overgrazing and soil erosion | Cattle rotation in Australia |
| Crop Rotation | Alternating crops to maintain soil nutrients and reduce pests/diseases | Legumes add nitrogen for cereals |
| Pest & Drought Resistant Varieties | Use of improved crop strains to reduce chemical input and survive harsh climates | Drought-tolerant maize in Africa |
| Trickle Drip Irrigation | Delivers water directly to roots, reduces evaporation, conserves water | Israel’s drip irrigation systems |
| Rainwater Harvesting | Collecting/storing rainwater for agricultural use | Rooftop tanks in rural India |
Case Study Example
Sahel Region, Africa
- Problem: Overgrazing, over-cultivation, and deforestation → severe soil erosion, desertification.
- Consequences: Decline in crop yields, malnutrition, migration, famine risks.
- Conservation Strategies:
- Contour bunds and terracing to reduce erosion.
- Reforestation (“Great Green Wall” project).
- Crop rotation and use of drought-resistant varieties.
- Rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation methods.
Quick Pointers
- Goal: balance productivity + environmental care + long-term soil fertility.
- Reduces dependency on chemicals → protects ecosystems and human health.
- Vital for food security in LEDCs and climate-stressed regions.
Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia, World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change O Level And IGCSE Environmental Management Full Scale Course