Overdependence on manufactured fertilizers and biocides, which has caused pollution of the environment, increased the energy intensiveness of agricultural production, induced increased disease and pest resistance, and increased human and animal morbidity and mortality, is of great concern. Fertilizers should be used sparingly, according to soil test recommendations for the specific crops to be grown. Crop residues and other natural fertilizers should be used in preference to manufactured fertilizers to the maximum extent possible. Dependence on environmentally damaging pesticides should be phased out in favor of natural management practices and biological pest controls. In growth and processing of food, application of chemicals to improve product appearance without significant qualitative contribution should be stopped.
Diversity is an important factor in the stability and survival of all ecosystems.
Agricultural practices which could destroy the gene pools preserved in diverse varieties of native and agricultural plants and animals must be controlled and discouraged. Diversity should be promoted so as to minimize large monocultures which are vulnerable to pests and disease. Particularly in developed countries, there should be a reduction in excessive food consumption and waste patterns to allow maintenance of diet quality at lower environmental cost. An important first step would be to develop a greater reliance on vegetable protein. Within environmental constraints, we must develop standby food reserves.