April 24, 2024 – Washington, DC – The American Sustainable Business Network (ASBN) has launched a comprehensive report, “The Business Case for Safer Alternatives to Fertilizers and Pesticides,” highlighting the urgent need to transition away from chemical-intensive farming practices.
The Growing Demand for Safer Agricultural Alternatives
Consumers and businesses alike are pushing for safer, more sustainable products, with 75% of U.S. consumers concerned about the environmental impact of their purchases. The widespread use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers poses a serious threat to watershed health, soil quality, public health, and economic sustainability.
The Economic Case for Safer Alternatives
- Cost Savings & Increased Yields – Businesses adopting regenerative soil health practices have significantly reduced reliance on synthetic inputs, leading to lower operating costs and, in many cases, higher crop yields.
- Reducing Agricultural Losses – The U.S. agricultural sector loses an estimated $44 billion annually due to soil erosion and topsoil depletion, reducing its ability to cultivate nutritious food.
- Addressing Health Risks – Chemical inputs contribute to serious health issues, including respiratory problems, neurological disorders, and cancers, particularly among farmworkers and rural communities.
Industry Support for Safer Alternatives
“Many responsible businesses have already taken proactive steps to eliminate harmful chemicals,” said David Levine, ASBN Co-Founder and President. “Promoting soil health practices can reduce artificial inputs, increasing long-term profitability and mitigating risks across the supply chain. It just makes good business sense.”
MegaFood, an ASBN member, has been committed to producing high-quality, planet-first vitamins and supplements free from pesticide residues. “The cost and challenges associated with ensuring pesticide-free products are substantial,” said Kripa Watts, Sustainability Implementation Manager for MegaFood. “A broader reduction in pesticide use would benefit consumers, businesses, and the environment alike.”
A Call to Action
The full report, available on ASBN’s website, serves as a call to action for businesses, policymakers, and consumers to invest in safer agricultural practices. By embracing sustainable solutions, reducing harmful chemical use, and advocating for policy change, the U.S. can protect public health, ensure long-term food security, and build a more resilient agricultural economy.
Press Contact
📧 Anayana White – anayana@asbnetwork.org
📞 (907) 301-6423
