What does sustainable intensification aim to achieve?

Sustainable intensification focuses on increasing agricultural productivity in a manner that maintains or improves environmental health and biodiversity. The goal is to achieve higher crop yields without compromising the ecosystem's ability to support these agricultural practices. This approach incorporates techniques that enhance the efficiency of resource use (such as water and nutrients) while reducing negative impacts on the environment, such as soil degradation, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity.

By prioritizing environmental sustainability alongside productivity, sustainable intensification encourages farmers to adopt practices that not only yield more food but also ensure the surrounding ecosystems are preserved and can continue to function effectively. This might include precision agriculture, crop rotation, agroforestry, and integrated pest management. Collectively, these practices contribute to a more sustainable agricultural system that meets the needs of a growing population while safeguarding the planet's resources.