Growing or discovered, dynamism is lost, ecosystem balance is lost, biodiversity is lost. To keep up with the demands of a growing population, modern technologies are being created to increase food production. The introduction of industrial agriculture aims to feed around 6 billion people. Industrial agriculture is a form of modern farming which refers to industrialized raising and production of crops, livestock, poultry, fish, etc. A “confined animal feeding operation” was set up for selected animal species like cows, hogs, turkeys, chicken the aim of which is to produce more meat, eggs, milk and poultry products at low cost with high level of food safetyin a controlled environment. To maintain the health of the animals and to ensure the good quality of the end products, vitamin supplements, growth hormones and use of therapeutic use of antimicrobials are being used. The advantages of industrial agriculture are increased production of food to meet the increasing needs of a growing population. Another advantage is that because it is mass population poses a great threat to the conservation of biodiversity. As we try to conserve and protect our existing ecosystem and the habitat of millions of species animals and plants, we are also faced continuously with the challenges and threats of a fast growing human population. The overwhelming increase in the population would mean an increasing need for food. Humans feed on animals and plants. As more animals and plants are being eliminated faster than being replaced production, products are relatively cheaper, which is convenient to the consumers. This would also create a better economy as this will benefit the growers, harvesters, manufacturers and the sellers as well. However, industrial agriculture also has its disadvantages. This create environmental and social issues, pollution is inevitable, damages to fisheries are more likely, increased health issues and risks from pesticide and chemical exposure are evident. The long term drawback is the increased ozone pollution, destruction of ozone layer which would eventually lead to global warming. In an effort to minimize the ill effects of industrial agriculture, a sustainable agriculture is now being practiced as this is more acceptable. The 3 main goals are environmental stewardship, farm profitability and prosperous farming communities. Sustainable agriculture uses organic form of farming methods which relies on natural occurring biological process, eliminating the use of pesticides and chemicals which is definitely beneficial to environment, society and consumers. Agricultural industry will be able to keep up with the rapid growth of the global human population. However, we should be more cautious and be more vigilant with the ill effects it may cause.
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