Climate change makes it vital for farmers to adopt sustainable methods
Drought and water restrictions are good reason for farmers to adopt practices that are water efficient and environmentally sustainable, writes Paul Hardman
US president-elect Donald Trump dismisses climate change — a stance farmers can ill afford to emulate. It makes sense for them to adopt sustainable farming practices, for the environment and their bottom line. Global climate change has had different climatic effects on regions around the world. But let’s look closer to home. SA’s recent drought — the worst in 55 years, with water restrictions in tow — is ample reason for adopting practices that are water efficient and environmentally sustainable. The Western Cape, for example, can expect extremely high temperature and significant changes in rainfall and seasonal cycles. That said, why should farmers take on the perceived burden of adopting sustainable farming practices, given all the challenges they’re already shouldering? What’s in it for them? Those challenges are the biggest drivers for adopting green technologies and practices in South African agriculture — rising input costs, limited natural resources (particularly arable land ...
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