Agriculture key in sustainable management of natural resources
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Agriculture key in sustainable management of natural resources
Agricultural systems have a central role to play in sustainability.
Agricultural systems have a central role to play in food security, rural development, and the sustainable management of natural resources.
As South Africa assumes leadership of the G20 in 2025, it has a unique opportunity to champion agricultural reforms that promote sustainability throughout the sector.
According to Gert Breet, Sustainable Agriculture Lead at FNB Commercial, the sustainability of South African farms is essential not only for environmental protection, but for securing long-term agricultural yields and, consequently, South Africa’s food security.
Sustainability a cornerstone
“Sustainability and optimising scarce resources to preserve and enhance value over the long term, has been a cornerstone of agricultural development and is deeply ingrained in the mindset of South African farmers.
“Nevertheless, further progress remains necessary, which is why a multi-stakeholder approach involving government, farmers, and financial institutions is critically important” says Breet.
There is an urgent requirement to align farming practices with environmental imperatives by adopting methods that reduce emissions, minimise pollution of air, water, and soil, and ensure ecosystems can support agricultural production for generations to come.
Conservation agriculture limits environmental impacts
Conservation agriculture practices such as minimum tillage, crop rotation, regenerative farming, and conservation agriculture are designed to reduce environmental impact without unduly compromising productivity.
“The sustainability of our farming environment faces mounting pressure that will intensify in the coming decades,” Breet emphasises.
“While the most severe impacts may be a generation away, we are committed to promoting sustainable agricultural practices today. Our relationship with farmers is fundamentally collaborative, and we work alongside them as partners in this transition,” he says.
Enhancing environmental stewardship
The agriculture industry’s progress is further supported by organisations like Grain SA, which provide guidance and advocacy for sustainable practices. Their support is instrumental in building a more resilient and environmentally responsible agricultural sector in South Africa.
Dr Dirk Strydom, Managing Director of Grain SA, says that the importance of implementing sustainable practices to enhance environmental stewardship.
“Agriculture in South Africa is highly diverse, with significant variability in soil characteristics and climatic conditions. It is essential to implement environmentally sustainable practices that also support economic viability.
“Adapting to new production systems requires long-term investment, and there is a growing demand for financial products designed to facilitate these transitions,” Strydom says.
To read more about the management of Africa’s natural resources, agriculture, environmental management and sustainable farming on the WhyAfrica website, your one-stop shop for on the ground information and business intelligence about Africa.
Agriculture key in sustainable management of natural resources
