Farming and sustainable environments

An Earthwatch event chaired by BBC Countryfile & Watchdog Presenter, Julia Bradbury.

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As the world’s population edges ever closer to the United Nations’ forecast of 9 billion by 2050, and as climate change alters land use patterns, farmers will be expected to produce more than ever before from the limited stock of agricultural land.  Some believe we will have to grow more food over the next 50 years than we have over the last 10,000.

Yet, productive agriculture depends on healthy ecosystems. Without fertile soils, intact water catchments, pollinator species, and natural controls over pest and disease, more food cannot be produced economically or sustainably.

So, how do we reconcile the conflicting urgencies of intensifying agriculture and conserving ecosystems?

Dr Mark Chandler, Earthwatch & Professor Ken Norris, University of Reading explored the complex issues at the heart of this debate, relating to research they have led into the sustainability of cocoa farming in Ghana and coffee farming in Costa Rica. Proving that with your support, we can help to find solutions to the challenges of sustainable farming.

Related: Restoring natural capital in degraded landscapes - BBC

Learn more about Dr Chandler’s Earthwatch research project:
Costa Rican Coffee: From Community to Cup

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