Conservation Tools

A three-part series sponsored by the Academy of Natural Sciences and the Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture

As we enter a new decade, both our planet and our society are facing major challenges.  Water shortages, climate change, loss of soil, and demands of growing populations are all real issues that will call for imagination and persistence on the part of people around the world.

Many of these problems come together around the issue of agriculture and food production.  Besides air and water, no process is more important to human existence and none is as tied to the earth's natural systems.  Availability of food impacts every element of our lives and livelihoods; the interplay of agriculture and the environment is one of the central issues of our time.

The Academy of Natural Sciences and the Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture are presenting a three part series of forums highlighting cutting edge issues on food and farming.  Whether it's balancing the needs for food and energy, finding new ways to grow more with less, or just getting safe, sustainable food on the table, agriculture faces a brave new world.

Innovative Agriculture for the 21st Century 
Modern agriculture has given us unprecedented amounts of food, however critics note the large amounts of water, energy and chemicals required for these yields as well as emerging losses of soil fertility and health and safety concerns.
Some growers are working to address these issues by practicing cutting- edge techniques that incorporate ecological principles.  Join us as local experts discuss organic and sustainable agriculture, the comprehensive technique known as permaculture, and the growing trends in urban agriculture.

All programs are in the Auditorium, Academy of Natural Sciences, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia PA 19102.  Programs will start with a reception and information exchange at 6:00 p.m. and  presentations begin  at 6:30 p.m.  For more information, please call 215-299-1108 or visit www.ansp.org/environmental.

Submitted by Nicole Faraguna