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Question: Defining Sustainability On-Farm (Sustainable Agriculture)

Answer: Sustainable agriculture is defined by three interactive components: economic profitability, environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

The term "sustainability," as it applies to agriculture, describes a holistic, long-term approach to business on-farm, that means maximizing economic and environmental stability, equity and health of the farm, business and family.

A sustainable approach to farming involves more than talking about environmental actions or maximizing profits.

Sustainability focuses on business process and practices, rather than a specific food, fibre or feed output. It integrates economic, environmental and societal values to create a "triple bottom line" (TBL) when reviewing the impacts of the business as a whole. This is very different from a purely profit-driven approach, where businesses benefit economically but often at the expense of the environment and society.

(Source: Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, 19 Mar 2021)

Source Link: http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/busdev/facts/15-023.htm#Define