HOW CAN ENERGY BE CONSERVED IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR?

17% of all fossil fuels used in US are consumed by the food production
system. The agricultural sector tends to be isolated or far removed from
the cities, and so doing large amounts of fossil fuels are consumed for
transport of products. Fuel is also used for heavy farming machinery
while the use of fertilizers increases nitrogen emissions to the
atmosphere.

What can farmers do?

Farmers can reduce or eliminate tillage, and practice certain crop
rotations such as the incorporation of legumes in crop rotations. It has
been shown that non-till systems consume less Diesel fuel and produce
less carbon dioxide than till-systems.
Reduce fertilizer use and work towards more efficient manure use.
Organic farming has been shown to require 60% less fossil fuels than
conventional industrial farming.

What can consumers do?

Consumers should try and purchase food from local farms as this will
reduce the distance that food is transported. Consumers can also try and
grow their own fresh produce in their garden at home. It is better to
purchase unprocessed food as this requires less energy and is more
nutritive than processed foods.

M.van der bank
2401402@uwc.ac.za