Two types of farming are conventional and organic. On a conventional farm, irrigation and chemical fertilizer may be used on fields that contain rows of only one type of crop. On an organic farm, multiple crops may be grown in one field. Pests may be removed by hand, and soil may be amended with fertilizer made from ground fish or animal manure,

How could a conventional farm be more economically sustainable than an organic farm?

(3 points)

Which type of farm is more economically and environmentally sustainable in the long term? Explain your answer.

1 answer

1. Conventional farming typically requires less labor for pest control and soil amendment, as chemical pesticides and fertilizers can be applied more efficiently and on a larger scale. This can result in lower labor costs for the farmer, making conventional farming more economically sustainable in the short term.

2. Conventional farming often yields higher crop yields due to the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. This can result in higher profits for the farmer, making conventional farming more economically sustainable in terms of maximizing productivity and revenue.

3. Conventional farming may have lower upfront costs for equipment and infrastructure, as organic farming often requires specialized tools and techniques. This can make conventional farming more economically sustainable for farmers who may not have the resources to invest in organic farming practices.

In the long term, organic farming is generally considered to be more economically and environmentally sustainable. Organic farming practices prioritize soil health and biodiversity, resulting in healthier ecosystems and more resilient farms in the face of climate change. Organic farming also reduces the reliance on synthetic inputs, such as chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can have negative impacts on the environment and human health. Additionally, organic farming can lead to higher premiums for organic products, which can result in higher profits for farmers in the long term. Overall, organic farming is seen as a more sustainable approach that can benefit both farmers and the environment in the long term.