The reality of fertilizer is that while it supports our food systems in the world, it can contribute even more to the pollution. The byproduct and the production itself of fertilizer contribute much to the carbon foot print of the world. The ecological condition that exists involves the climate impact of food and the overall function of the fertilizer industry. In Robbins’ book on Global Problems and the Culture of Capitalism, particularly in the chapter on Environment and Consumption, there is an impact on the culture involved with the overall consumption. This culture also considers the kind of method of fertilizer production, which is an important aspect of agriculture. While the culture itself refers to the social norms and the behavior of people, the agricultural industry is very much affected by these considerations. Without being sensitive to the needs of the global community, fertilizer production then remains uncontrolled. Because of this, there is a growing trend toward continuous fertilizer production without the monitoring that is required.
Fertilizer production must maintain in equilibrium with the food demands. This kind of dynamic is a problem because it is difficult to please two sectors, the people and the environment. There must be a line drawn between the two on whether one should give way. Should the people compromise their food supply just to protect the environment? Or should the environment suffer because of the needs of people?
Pesticides and inorganic fertilizers are big contributors to pollution of our water ways, and many aquifers, especially in the South Western US are being depleted because we use too much water. Agricultural irrigation accounts for a large percentage of our total water use (~70%). What if in 20 years we no longer use engines powered by fossil fuels? Could you imagine the heights the agricultural industry could reach? What really makes me upset is the lack of environmental concern by these large multinational companies, considering the scale of their operations, some sort of environmental contingency plan should be at the forefront.