Why Sustainable Agriculture Matters for World Water Day
Why Sustainable Agriculture Matters for World Water Day
March 22nd was the United Nations annual observance of World Water Day. This year’s theme is “valuing water”, which seeks to inspire deeper understanding of water and what it means to people around the world. This increased awareness and understanding of the value of water is essential in helping decision makers and global leaders informed about the diverse benefits of water globally, so they can understand how to protect this vital gift from Nature which sustains all life.
In his annual statement on World Water Day, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the UN is currently not on track to ensure safe and clean access to drinking water by 2030. He stated that progress must quadruple to achieve this Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 6). The adverse effects of climate change, chiefly animal and industrial agriculture and a growing population put universal access to clean water under threat. Thus, the need for sustainable farming practices is needed now, more than ever, to safeguard water and to bring about greater access to food security on a global scale.
The practice of Natural Agriculture helps to protect water as the process takes into consideration nearby streams, rivers and bodies of water. This holistic landscape management practice in harmony with Nature, known as Satoyama, sees water and the land as interconnected, and seeks to build healthy ecosystems which support the soil, crops and nearby sources of water. Additionally, Nature Agriculture omits any chemicals additives, herbicides and pesticides, which prevents the pollution of groundwater and nearby water sources in the areas. Pure water contains vital life-force-energy that leads to healthier crops and healthier people. It also leads to better soil health, healthier crops and greater food security. Water is life and in honor of World Water Day, we recognize the role of Natural Agriculture in helping to protect this sacred life source.
