Journal article

Publication year: 2002

Pages: 368-375

Journal: Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science

Volume number: 188

Issue number: 6

ISSN: 0931-2250

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1439-037X.2002.00586.x

Publisher: Wiley

Abstract: 
From worldwide discussions about the limits of agriculture has arisen a powerful vision of sustainable development. Phrases like 'limitation', 'sustainability', 'sufficient supply', 'fair distribution' and 'productivity of resources' are no longer hindrances but guidelines for a fairer and safer world. 'Nature's Concept' focuses on biological and ecological principles. On this basis, criteria of action have to be defined in order to determine long-term economic consequences of agri-production. The costs of destruction of natural resources, such as reduction of genetic resources, changes to the world climate and soil degradation, are inestimably large. The long-term effects show the real substance of the agri-shift and the demands on research. The solution for sustainable agriculture is more than ever a scientific development of 'tools' for a sensible management of resources. Gene technology may be an option to reduce the ecological risks of agriculture, especially those of devastating land use. For this purpose, new education programmes with international links and interventions by states are crucial in order to solve conflicts when short-term interests interfere with long-term ecological values. The international agri-centres could have a further impact to guarantee access to new techniques for all countries. Thus agriculture could finally become a major pillar in a fair world order.

Harvard Citation style: Geldermann, U. and Kogel, K. (2002) Nature's concept. The 'New agriculture' amidst ecology, economy and the demythologization of the gene, Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science, 188(6), pp. 368-375. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1439-037X.2002.00586.x

APA Citation style: Geldermann, U., & Kogel, K. (2002). Nature's concept. The 'New agriculture' amidst ecology, economy and the demythologization of the gene. Journal of Agronomy and Crop Science. 188(6), 368-375. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1439-037X.2002.00586.x