It’s often said that sustainable agriculture is the future of the industry. It is much healthier for the environment than most current practices. Still, sustainable methods are less popular than traditional farming. This is partially due to many obstacles still in place, which are considered too challenging by many farmers.
Read on to learn about just a few of the challenges sustainable farmers face today.
Public Perception
The first problem is the public’s opinion of sustainable agriculture. Many know very little about it, believing it will disturb their business or the economy as a whole. It is also perceived as less than favorable for the bottom line of farmers. These are all misconceptions which sustainable farmers must combat.
Small-Time Players
Sustainable farmers are considered small-time players on the agricultural stage. The system is designed to cater to industry veterans, leaving smaller farmers to fall through the cracks. There is also the issue of yield: sustainable farms sometimes produce less than industrial methods, both in real numbers and in scale. However, there are advantages to having a smaller, niche market.
Education
Sustainable agriculture isn’t something you can just dive into. It’s a practice that relies heavily on modern technology and science, posing a significant learning curve. This makes it difficult for many to get into the business. However, resources are available for those in need.
Funding
As is the problem with any small company, sustainable farmers must find funding in order to operate. This is more difficult for small farms, as investors and banks tend to favor larger, more mainstream operations. It can be overcome, however, by proving what you plan to earn, and showing where your skills lie.
Demographics
In modern agriculture, there is a problem with demographic. At this point, many farmers are elderly and set in their ways. This makes modernizing difficult, and many are reluctant to accept new practises. The rise of technology has also depopulated many rural areas, and rural infrastructure is not always compatible with how sustainable farms must be run.
Conclusion
There are many obstacles to launching a sustainable farm. Those who aim to work in the sustainable industry must work in decentralized ways, innovating when needed. It will take time for such changes to come to pass.