American Sustainable Business Network releases The Business Case for Safer Alternatives to Fertilizers and Pesticides

Businesses and consumers demand safer and more ethical products, with 75% of U.S. consumers expressing concerns about the environmental impacts of their purchases.

WASHINGTON, DC – The American Sustainable Business Network (ASBN) has unveiled a groundbreaking resource aimed at highlighting the urgent need for safer alternatives to chemical-intensive farming practices. Titled “The Business Case for Safer Alternatives to Fertilizers and Pesticides,” this comprehensive report sheds light on the detrimental effects of chemical inputs on farms, waterways, and public health, while also presenting viable business solutions.

The detrimental impact of chemical inputs, such as pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, on watershed health, soil health, and human well-being cannot be overstated. These hazardous substances pose a grave threat to the future of American businesses, local economies, and the overall health of rural and urban communities alike.

Thankfully, the market offers alternatives that are not only more affordable but also significantly better for the environment, businesses, and local communities. By utilizing context — and place-based practices that focus on building soil health — these businesses can help eliminate the need for chemical inputs, resulting in reduced costs and, in some cases, increased yields for farmers. 

“The Business Case for Safer Alternatives to Fertilizers and Pesticides highlights several key benefits of transitioning away from chemical-intensive practices,” says Liza LaManna, ASBN Manager of Regenerative Agriculture and Clean Water. “Firstly, the financial advantages of clean water and soil health cannot be ignored. The U.S. agricultural sector currently suffers annual economic losses of $44 billion due to erosion and topsoil depletion, which directly impacts the ability to cultivate nutritious food. Furthermore, agricultural runoff, a costly water contaminant, not only affects drinking water quality but also has severe environmental implications. Pesticides and synthetic fertilizers are bad for business and the environment.” 

The report emphasizes the importance of avoiding the health effects associated with chemical inputs, which range from temporary respiratory and skin reactions to long-term diseases and cancers, particularly among farm workers and their families.

“Reducing operating costs is another significant advantage of embracing safer alternatives. Recent data from the American Farm Bureau reveals that Americans spend a staggering $9 billion annually on pesticides and fertilizers,” says David Levine, Co-Founder and President of ASBN. “By promoting soil health practices, artificial inputs can be minimized, increasing long-term profitability and reducing risks throughout the farming supply chain. It just makes good business sense.”

Consumer demand for safer and more ethical products is on the rise, with 75% of U.S. consumers expressing concerns about the environmental impacts of their purchases. To remain competitive in international markets, U.S. supply chains must initiate the transition towards safer alternatives without delay.

MegaFood uses over fifty years of scientific expertise to craft the most efficacious, planet-first vitamins and supplements powered by plants. “To satisfy our consumer demand for trusted products, we utilize third-party certifiers and extensive analytical testing to ensure that our products are free of a wide range of herbicide and pesticide residues, including glyphosate,” says Kripa Watts, Sustainability Implementation Manager for ASBN member, MegaFood. “The time, cost and challenges associated with this work are substantial. An overall reduction in the use of herbicides and pesticides on agricultural products would benefit the planet, people, and businesses such as ours, which go the extra mile to provide what consumers are looking for.”

The Business Case for Safer Alternatives to Fertilizers and Pesticides serves as a call to action for businesses, policymakers, and consumers alike. By embracing sustainable practices and investing in safer alternatives, we can safeguard our environment, protect public health, and ensure the long-term viability of our economy.

For more information and to access the full report, please visit the American Sustainable Business Network’s website.

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American Sustainable Business Network (ASBN) is a movement builder in partnership with the business and investor community. ASBN develops and advocates solutions for policymakers, business leaders, and investors that support an equitable, regenerative, and just economy that benefits all — people and planet. As a multi-issue, membership organization advocating on behalf of every business sector, size, and geography, ASBN and its association members collectively represent thousands of businesses across our networks. ASBN partners with some of the most impactful brands to develop and advocate solutions for policymakers that support an equitable economy for all.

Press Contact:
Anayana White
anayana@asbnetwork.org
(907) 301-6423