The concept of sustainability in agricultural production goes beyond strictly environmental concerns. While sustainable ag practices often result in better overall conditions for the surrounding environment, those practices also help to ensure the viability of that particular farming operation.
“Sustainability is the balance of economics and the environment throughout that value chain,” explained Senior Vice President at Land O’Lakes, Matt Carstens. “When we start working that direction collaboratively, through every step of the process, I think that’s when we’ll find the real success and really have a more authentic message to consumers.”
In recent years consumers have put an added emphasis on transparency and sustainability in food production. Employing sustainable practices on farms and ranches can enhance public perception but also increase the chances for future success of that operation. At the same time however, farmers also have to consider the cost of implementation and how much benefit it can provide.
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