Chapter 2. Introduction To Agriculture And Ecosystem Flashcards
, as a critical driver of human civilization, plays an indispensable role in sustaining societies by providing food, employment, and raw materials
Agriculture
, defined as communities of living organisms interacting with their physical environment, vary widely based on climate, geography, and human influence.
Ecosystems
Components of ecosystem
Includes both biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors.
These ecosystems can be basically classified as
Close Ecosystem and Open Ecosystem
Other classifications of ecosystem
: A. natural ecosystems and man-made ecosystems.
B. Terrestrial Ecosystems, Aquatic Ecosystems, Urban Ecosystems.
exchanges energy butnotmatterwith its surroundings – it is self-contained (e.g. mesocosm);
closed ecosystem
closed ecosystem example
. mesocosm
exchangesbothenergy and matter with surrounding environments (e.g. a natural ecosystem
open ecosystem
open ecosystem example
a natural ecosystem)
is self-sustaining and results from spontaneous natural reaction.
Natural Ecosystem
It is a natural unit consisting of all
plants, animals and microorganism
A place where plants and animals are dependent upon one another. This includes:
Forests
Grasslands
Wetlands
play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, water regulation, and biodiversity conservation.
Forests
Example of Forests
Tropical rainforests in the Philippines.
These ecosystems are vital for livestock farming, particularly in regions like the North American prairies and the African savannas.
Grasslands
Examples of grassland
African savannas
support rice farming, a staple crop in many Asian countries, including the Philippines.
Wetlands
emphasizes the need for sustainable wetland management to maintain their ecological and agricultural functions.
The Ramsar Convention (2018)
Example of Wetlands
Agusan Marsh in the Philippines.
. Artificial ecosystem are created by human beings. Where management, balance of the nature is disturbed regularly.
Man-Made Ecosystem
Examples of Man made Ecosystem
sugarcane, rice-fields, wheat, gardens, dams, and aquariums.
The basic biotic and abiotic components are defined by man in
artificial ecosystem.
This may also include in Man made Ecosystem
Urban Areas
Agricultural Lands:
is gaining traction as a means to enhance food security and sustainability in densely populated cities.
Urban agriculture
A study by highlights the potential of urban farming to contribute to local food systems and reduce the carbon footprint of food production.
Cabannes and Marocchino (2018)
Examples of Urban Areas
: Parks and gardens in Makati City.
Agricultural ecosystems are tailored to optimize food production.
Agricultural Lands:
advocates for diversified farming systems that mimic natural ecosystems to enhance resilience and productivity.
Lal (2020)
Example of agricultural land
Rice terraces in Banaue.
Example of natural Terrestrial ecosystems
Grassland
Forest
Desert
Example of natural Aquatic ecosystems
Marine ocean
Fresh water lake
Example of artificial or Man made Ecosystem
Aquarium
Crop Field
Types and Classifications of Agriculture
- Based on the Scale of Operation:
- Based on the Purpose of Production:
- Based on the Method of Farming:
- Based on Environmental Conditions:
- Based on Geographic Regions:
- Based on Technological Advancement:
Types of Based on the Scale of Operation :
Subsistence Agriculture:
Commercial Agriculture:
Small-scale farming for personal use. Minimal use of modern technology. Example: Traditional rice farming in remote villages;Traditional Rice Farming in Ifugao’s Rice Terraces
Subsistence Agriculture:
Large-scale farming aimed at market sale. High use of technology and inputs. Example: Pineapple Plantations in Bukidnon; Large corn plantations in the Midwest USA
Commercial Agriculture:
Types of Based on the Purpose of Production:
Food Crops Agriculture
Cash Crops Agriculture
Mixed Farming:
Industrial Agriculture
Grows crops for human consumption.
Example:Rice Farming in Nueva Ecija. Nueva Ecija, often referred to as the “Rice Granary of the Philippines,” is a prime example of food crops agriculture;
Wheat farming in the Punjab region.
Other Examples of food crops: Corn, Banana, Cassava, Coconut, Mango, Pineapple
Food Crops Agriculture
Produces crops for sale and profit.
Example: Coconut Plantations in Quezon Province. Quezon Province is known for its extensive coconut plantations, where coconuts are grown primarily as a cash crop.
The coconuts are processed into various products like copra, coconut oil, and desiccated coconut, which are then sold domestically and internationally, generating income for farmers and contributing to the local economy.
Coffee plantations in Colombia.
Cash Crops Agriculture
Combines crop cultivation with livestock.
Example:Integrated Rice-Fish Farming in Iloilo. In Iloilo, particularly in the rural areas, farmers practice mixed farming by combining rice cultivation with fish farming.
This method allows them to produce both food crops (rice) and livestock (fish) within the same agricultural system.
The integration of fish into rice paddies helps control pests and provides an additional source of income and nutrition.
Dairy and vegetable farms in the Netherlands.
Mixed Farming:
Focuses on producing raw materials for industries.
Example: Sugarcane Plantations in Negros Occidental. Negros Occidental is a major hub for sugarcane production in the Philippines.
The sugarcane grown here is primarily used as a raw material for the sugar industry, which includes the production of refined sugar, ethanol, and other sugar-based products.
The large-scale, industrial nature of these plantations supports both local and international markets; Oil palm plantations in Malaysia.
Other examples of industrial crops: abaca, rubber, cofffee, coconut, Pineapple, tobacco
Industrial Agriculture
Type of Based on the Method of Farming:
Organic Farming:
Conventional Farming:
Conservation Agriculture:
Uses natural inputs and methods. It focuses on sustainable organic farming practices, producing organic vegetables, herbs, and livestock without the use of synthetic chemicals.
Example: Costales Nature Farms is one of the leading organic farms in the Philippines.Organic vegetable farms in California.
Organic Farming:
Utilizes synthetic chemicals and GMOs.
Farmers often rely on synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and high-yielding genetically modified rice varieties to maximize production.
Example: Large-Scale Rice Farming in Central Luzon and Large-scale soybean farming in Brazil.
Conventional Farming:
Practices that protect soil health and reduce environmental impact.
Example: Magsasaka at Siyentipiko para sa Pag-unlad ng Agrikultura (MASIPAG) practices no till farming on corn; And No-till farming in the Great Plains.
Conservation Agriculture:
Type of Based on Environmental Conditions:
Irrigated Agriculture:
Rainfed Agriculture:
Dryland Agriculture:
Aquaculture
Type of Based on Geographic Regions:
Tropical Agriculture
Temperate Agriculture
Mediterranean Agriculture
Farming in warm, humid regions.
Example: Banana plantations in Costa Rica.
Tropical Agriculture
Farming in moderate climates.
Example: Apple orchards in New Zealand.
Temperate Agriculture
Farming in climates with wet winters and dry summers.
Example: Olive groves in Spain.
Mediterranean Agriculture
Uses traditional methods and tools.
Example: Payatak system in our province, and Hand plowing in rural Africa.
Traditional Agriculture
Employs advanced technology and practices.
Example: Precision farming with GPS technology.
Modern Agriculture:
Types of Agriculture’s Impact on Ecosystems
Soil health and fertility.
Water resources and irrigation.
Biodiversity and habitat loss.
Climate change and greenhouse gas emissions.
Agricultural practices, such as the use of chemical fertilizers and monoculture, can degrade soil health by reducing organic matter, depleting essential nutrients, and causing soil erosion.
Soil health and fertility.
. Agriculture is a major consumer of freshwater resources, particularly in irrigated farming.
Water resources and irrigation
. The expansion of agricultural land often leads to the conversion of natural habitats, resulting in biodiversity loss
Biodiversity and habitat loss
Agriculture contributes to climate change through the emission of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide from deforestation, methane from livestock, and nitrous oxide from fertilizer use
Climate change and greenhouse gas emissions.
Types of Ecosystem Services Beneficial to Agriculture
Pollination and natural pest control.
Soil formation and nutrient cycling.
Water Regulation and Purification
The role of biodiversity in resilient farming systems
Many crops rely on pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other insects for fruit and seed production. Healthy ecosystems support a diverse community of pollinators, essential for the productivity of crops like fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
Pollination and natural pest control.
Healthy ecosystems contribute to soil formation through the breakdown of organic matter and the accumulation of minerals. This process creates fertile soil, which is critical for crop growth.
Soil formation and nutrient cycling.
play a key role in recycling nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, making them available for plant uptake
Microorganisms, fungi, and plant roots
Ecosystems like forests and wetlands regulate water flow by absorbing rainfall, reducing runoff, and preventing soil erosion.
Water Regulation and Purification
Diverse ecosystems enhance the resilience of farming systems by providing a variety of species that can adapt to changing conditions.
The role of biodiversity in resilient farming systems-
refers to farming practices that address current food and fiber needs while ensuring that future generations can also meet their needs.
Sustainability in agriculture-
Principles of Sustainable Agriculture
- Climate Principle
- Land and Soil Principle.
- Nature Principle.
- Water Principle.
- Community Principle.
- Legal Compliance Principle.
- Livelihood Principle
- Resource and Markets Principle
- Health and Safety Principle.
- Working and Living Conditions Principle
- Animal Welfare Principle.
Sustainable agriculture practices should reduce greenhouse gas emissions, act as a significant greenhouse gas sink, enable climate change adaptation, and support the resilience of farmers and farming communities
Climate Principle-
Sustainable agriculture practices should optimize land use, maintain soil fertility, prevent degradation, enhance the environment, and use land as a greenhouse gas sink by sequestering carbon.
Land and Soil Principle-
Sustainable agriculture should maintain and enhance the area’s biodiversity and surrounding ecosystems, promote pollinators’ health, ensure diversity of genetic material (commercial and wild), and hinder invasive species.
Nature Principle
Sustainable agriculture practices should ensure that water resources are optimally managed; water balance is maintained for the catchment, water runoff and pollution is minimized, water is managed for economic benefit, and equitable access to water is assured for all users (human and wildlife).
Water Principle
Sustainable agriculture should support resilient farming communities, contribute to the local economy, prevent forced resettlement due to land conversion, promote fair use of shared resources, respect traditional land use and rights, build trust in the value chain, and support next-generation farming.
Community Principle
Sustainable agricultural practices should prioritize a comprehensive understanding and adherence to legal requirements, including local, regional, and national laws, as well as international agreements.
Legal Compliance Principle
Sustainable Agriculture practices should ensure farm livelihoods support a thriving agricultural economy, by providing a living wage to workers and ensuring availability of living income and financial investment options for farmers.
Livelihood Principle
Sustainable Agriculture practices should ensure the efficient use of resources and fair and effective markets, creating resilient farm businesses and supply chains that are able to adapt to changing markets and resource availability.
Resource and Markets Principle
Sustainable Agriculture practices should support the health and safety of farmers, farm workers and their families, and nearby communities.
Health and Safety Principle
Sustainable agriculture practices should respect human rights by providing a pleasant work environment free from forced or child labor, discrimination, and disciplinary practices.
Working and Living Conditions Principle
Sustainable Agriculture practices should ensure welfare of livestock by adhering to the Five Freedoms , and promotes animal health and natural behavior.
Animal Welfare Principle-
The five freedom are:
- Freedom from Hunger and Thirst;
- Freedom from Discomfort:
- Freedom from Pain, Injury, or Disease, 4.Freedom to Express Normal Behavior, 5.Freedom from Fear and Distress.
Reduce Emissions: Implement manure management, precision farming, and limit synthetic fertilizers.
Carbon Sequestration: Use agroforestry and conservation tillage.
Adaptation: Apply drought-resistant crops and efficient irrigation.
Climate Principle
Optimize Land Use: Match crops to land characteristics.
Soil Conservation: Employ contour farming and cover crops.
Enhance Soil Carbon: Practice reforestation and add organic matter.
Land and Soil Principle
Enhance Biodiversity: Plant diverse crops and create wildlife habitats.
Support Pollinators: Use flowering plants and avoid harmful pesticides.
Control Invasive Species: Monitor and manage invasive species.
Nature Principle
Efficient Use: Adopt drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting.
Protect Water Quality: Use buffer zones and reduce runoff.
Ensure Fair Access: Distribute water equitably among users.
Water Principle
Support Communities: Engage in local development and fair resource access.
Respect Land Rights: Uphold traditional land rights and avoid forced resettlement.
Build Trust: Foster transparent value chains.
Community Principle
Follow Regulations: Adhere to local, national, and international laws.
Maintain Records: Keep accurate documentation for transparency
Legal Compliance Principle
Fair Wages: Provide equitable compensation for workers.
Financial Support: Offer access to loans and grants for investment.
Livelihood Principle
Efficient Resources: Optimize input use and minimize waste.
Resilient Markets: Develop adaptable market strategies.
Resource and Markets Principle
Protect Health: Use safe inputs and provide protective equipment.
Ensure Safety: Implement protocols to prevent accidents.
Health and Safety Principle
Human Rights: Ensure safe, respectful work conditions, free from forced or child labor.
Fair Compensation: Provide adequate wages, housing, and amenities.
Working and Living Conditions Principle
Five Freedoms: Ensure access to food, water, comfort, medical care, and natural behaviors.
Promote Natural Behavior: Allow grazing and social interactions.
Animal Welfare Principle
Resource Constraints
- Water Scarcity
- Soil Degradation:
Dry seasons in Central Luzon and Mindanao lead to water shortages, complicating the balance between productivity and water-efficient practices in farming.
Water Scarcity:
In the Cordillera region, farming on steep slopes causes soil erosion and nutrient loss, challenging both soil conservation and productivity.
Soil Degradation:
Economic Pressures
- Cost of Sustainable Practices:
- Market Access and Price Volatility:
High costs of sustainable methods like organic farming can be prohibitive for smallholder farmers without sufficient financial support.
Cost of Sustainable Practices:
Farmers face difficulties in accessing markets that offer fair prices for sustainably produced goods, with price volatility impacting profitability.
Market Access and Price Volatility:
Climate Change
- Extreme Weather Events:
- Rising Temperatures:
Typhoons, floods, and droughts in the Philippines make it difficult to maintain productivity while adopting sustainable practices.
Extreme Weather Events:
Higher temperatures stress crops like rice and corn, requiring climate-resilient practices to sustain yields.
Rising Temperatures:
Technological Limitations
- Lack of Access to Modern Technology:
- Infrastructure Deficiencies
Many farmers, especially in remote areas, lack access to modern farming technologies that enhance sustainable productivity.
Lack of Access to Modern Technology:
Poor infrastructure, including roads and access to utilities, hinders the adoption of sustainable practices in less developed regions.
Infrastructure Deficiencies:
Policy and Regulatory Issues
- Inconsistent Policies:
- Inadequate Incentives:
Inconsistent government policies and weak enforcement can discourage the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices.
Inconsistent Policies:
Existing incentives for sustainable practices are often insufficient, limiting widespread adoption among farmers
Inadequate Incentives:
Social and Cultural Factors
- Traditional Farming Practices
- Community Involvement and Awareness
Traditional methods may conflict with modern sustainable practices, requiring a balance between change and cultural respect.
Traditional Farming Practices:
Varying levels of education and awareness about sustainability can hinder community engagement in sustainable agriculture initiatives.
Community Involvement and Awareness:
Economic Benefits
- Increased Profitability:
- Market Development:
Organic farming boosts profits, with the Organic Producers and Traders Association (OPTA) enhancing access to premium markets in Banaue.
Increased Profitability:
: The Mindanao Fair Trade Center (MFTC) connects coffee and cacao farmers in Mindanao to fair trade markets, increasing profitability and market reach.
Market Development
Environmental Protection
- Climate Mitigation:
- Sustainable Land Use:
Sustainability Solutions Philippines’ solar-powered irrigation in Central Luzon reduces emissions and improves water efficiency.
Climate Mitigation:
The Banaue Rice Terraces Farmers Cooperative employs agroforestry and soil conservation in the Cordilleras to boost land health and biodiversity.
Sustainable Land Use:
Social Equity
- Fair Labor Practices:
- Community Well-being
: The Philippine Network of Environmental Journalists (PNEJ) supports fair wages and safe conditions through organic farming cooperatives.
Fair Labor Practices
The Ifugao Agricultural Cooperative fosters local economies and farmer welfare through collective action and resource sharing in the rice terraces of the Ifugao.
Community Well-being:
Agriculture’s Role in Society
1) Food Security:
2) Economic Contributions:
Agricultural systems are essential for ensuring food availability and nutritional access. Effective agricultural practices contribute to stable food supplies and improved nutrition. (FAO, 2021)
Food Security:
Agriculture plays a crucial role in supporting livelihoods and is a major sector in the global economy. It generates employment, contributes to GDP, and is vital for rural development.
Economic Contributions:
Social Justice and Equity in Agriculture
1) Impact on Rural Communities:
2) Filipino Case Studies
Addressing the role of women and marginalized groups in agriculture is crucial for promoting social justice and equitable practices.
Impact on Rural Communities:
Community-supported agriculture (CSA) projects in the Philippines demonstrate successful models that empower local farmers and foster community engagement.
Filipino Case Studies:
The Cultural Significance of Agriculture
- Traditional Practices:
- Community Building
: Indigenous farming techniques reflect cultural heritage and sustainable practices.
Traditional Practices
Agricultural practices contribute to social cohesion by fostering community interactions and collective efforts.
Community Building:
