With seven billion mouths to feed, human agriculture exerts a tremendous toll on the planet, from water draws
to pollution, and from energy use to habitat loss. But there is also a
growing set of solutions, from organic agriculture to integrated pest
management.
More people around the world are taking a look at
urban farming, which offers to make our food as “local” as possible. By
growing what we need near where we live, we decrease the “food miles”
associated with long-distance transportation. We also get the freshest
produce money can buy, and we are encouraged to eat in season.
Another
benefit of urban farming is that it can add greenery to cities,
reducing harmful runoff, increasing shading, and countering the
unpleasant heat island effect. Garden plots can help people reconnect
with the Earth, and gain a greater appreciation for where our food comes
from (hint: not from plastic packages).
