Why should farmers move away from conventional fertilisers to more environmentally friendly fertilisers?
Viktor Sukau (VS): For several reasons. The first is to reduce environmental pollution. Conventional fertilisers, which are typically made from synthetic chemicals, can cause water and soil pollution. These chemicals seep into groundwater and nearby bodies of water, leading to contamination and harming aquatic life. Environmentally friendly fertilisers, by contrast, tend to be derived from natural sources and are less likely to cause pollution.
The second reason is to improve soil health. Overuse of conventional fertiliser can lead to nutrient depletion in the soil, making it less fertile and reducing crop yield over time. By contrast, environmentally friendly fertilisers, such as organic fertilisers, can help to improve soil health and fertility, leading to more productive and sustainable agriculture.
The third reason is to ensure healthier food. Conventional fertilisers can leave residue on crops that’s harmful to human health, whereas organic fertilisers are typically safer and healthier.
A fourth reason is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Conventional fertilisers are often produced with fossil fuels, which leads to greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. Environmentally friendly fertilisers tend to have a lower carbon footprint and can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Overall, transitioning to environmentally friendly fertilisers can lead to improved environmental and human health outcomes, while promoting more sustainable and productive agriculture.
Are conventional fertilisers more cost-effective then environmentally friendly fertilisers?
Denne historien er fra Farmer's Weekly 7 & 14 April 2023-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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Denne historien er fra Farmer's Weekly 7 & 14 April 2023-utgaven av Farmer's Weekly.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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New farmers' seedling pitfalls
Inexperienced farmers may be tempted to grow seedlings from seed themselves, but they have much to gain by trusting a seedling grower at a nursery to perform this task for them instead
South African avocado production: a success story
Avocado production in South Africa has expanded markedly since the industry's humble beginnings over 80 years ago. From a small grove planted in 1938 in what was then Nelspruit, the industry has blossomed to seven million trees planted on 20 000ha. Dr Guy Witney, project manager at Great Brak Avos, spoke to Annelie Coleman about the country's avocado production.
Unlocking value through livestock exports
Exporting livestock might sound like a daunting business that's better left for big companies, but Gerrie Ferreira, who farms near Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape, has been doing it successfully for almost 30 years, sometimes in partnership with other breeders. He spoke to Glenneis Kriel about the huge potential this market holds, and offers some advice for farmers who are contemplating going this route.
An agribusiness's dedication to community upliftment
For agribusiness NWK, located in Lichtenburg, North West, corporate social investment is an important part of creating a positive influence alongside financial returns. Johan Bezuidenhout, NWK’s group manager of corporate marketing and communication, spoke to Annelie Coleman about why the company chooses to invest millions of rands in the area it operates in every year.
Empowering dreams, transforming lives
Since its launch in 2013, the Agri's Got Talent competition has revolutionised the lives of many farmworkers by unlocking their hidden talents and fostering a culture of empowerment. Glenneis Kriel spoke to various finalists about how the contest has changed their lives.
Foreign investment: agriculture maintains its appeal
South Africa remains a popular destination for foreign investors, despite an often negative outlook from its citizens. It is a gateway to Africa, and with its counterseasonal production to the Northern Hemisphere and favourable weather, local agriculture is especially well placed to attract foreign interest, bringing with it hope for rural communities
The real value and message of COP29 for SA agriculture
While the 2024 Conference of the Parties may have disappointed those who hoped for real progress, it's more important for South African agriculture to highlight its role in carbon mitigation
Improving efficiencies in feed and grain milling
Bühler, a Swiss-based company that provides solutions and equipment for various industries, including food and animal feed processing, has pledged that by 2025, it will deliver scalable solutions that will reduce energy, waste and water by 50% in the value chains of its customers.
Tips for better olive production
At an SA Olive Association field day in November, industry experts shared ways to improve olive production efficiencies, from soil preparation to harvesting.
More effort needed to protect vulnerable cheetah
On International Cheetah Day, commemorated every year on 4 December, emphasis was placed on the vulnerability of the species.
