Gaps in Sustainable Development Research in Agriculture

Abstract

In Ireland, agriculture and forestry occupy over 70% of the total land area and thus have a major impact on the physical environment.  As the Department of Agriculture and Food’s most recent policy statement points out [1] , much of this impact is positive.  The rural landscape, which is an important tourist resource as well as an amenity for local populations, is to a large extent a by-product of our agricultural systems.  However, there is also concern about the negative impacts which agriculture may have and the growth of unsustainable farm practices.  In particular, agriculture is seen to contribute to water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions and reduced bio-diversity [1].  The recent report on Eco-Friendly Farming [2]provides a succinct summary of the global commitments and EU law which Ireland is obliged to implement to encourage a more sustainable agriculture, as well as providing a summary of the actions which are being taken to meet these obligations, including discretionary national action.