Sharp furrows come at a cost

More than eight billion people live on earth today. One invention above all others made that possible. It brought food security to our Neolithic ancestors, and still helps feed the world.

 

But what if the plough no longer always serves our best interests? Full cultivation can extract a heavy price these days, not least in terms of our reputation as responsible food producers.

 

Barring breakthroughs yet to emerge, the alternative seems simple. More sustainable, with fewer emissions. Better for both soil and water. Faster. Cheaper.

 

After 60 years of trial and error in New Zealand, shouldn’t we all be taking a second look at direct drilling?

 

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