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Nowadays, we live in a world where consumerism reigns everywhere. This includes the food we eat. The cycle of demand and supply dictates that more food should be produced at a faster rate. Now we have instant and processed foods that are loaded with artificial flavors, additives, pesticides, harmful chemicals, and genetically modified organisms.

Fortunately, there is a growing movement that advocates naturally produced food that are environment-friendly. This is called Ecological Agriculture. This is the natural farming method, and it works in harmony with nature. This is beneficial to the environment, as well as the livelihood of farmers.

Ecological Agriculture means healthy farming methods and healthy organic food for the present and future. It protects the condition of our soil and water, and promotes biodiversity. Chemicals produced through genetic engineering method of farming contaminates our soil. By ecological agriculture, this does not happen. Soils are kept healthy by using organic fertilizer, mulching and cultivating other plants as natural fertilizers. By not using harmful synthetic pesticides and fertilizers that contribute to greenhouse gases, Ecological agriculture helps in Climate Change mitigation.

Greenpeace, an independent organization campaigning to protect and preserve the environment, recently sponsored the “Greenpeace Ecological Agriculture Workshop.” Greenpeace envisions a world where producers and consumers, not corporations, control the food chain. Food sovereignty is about the way food is produced and by whom. Ecological farming contributes to rural development, and food security. It fights poverty by enabling livelihood in rural communities that are safe, healthy, and economically viable.

Some principles that are promoted are: Higher food production and yield through ecological means, biodiversity from the seed to the landscape level, sustainable soil health, natural methods of pest control, and resilient food systems to adapt to future climate and economic shocks.

On the consumer level, one can support Ecological Agriculture by buying and eating organic and ecologically-farmed foods grown by local farmers. Greenpeace suggests  growing your own food, being your own farmer, and practicing zero food waste. (Photo By: Jimmy Camba)

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