This project had origins in 1987 in communication between Yutaka Yoshioka, Chairman, Japan International Agricultural Council, and Kenneth Farrell, Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources, the University of California-Berkeley. Projects were proposed in "long-term food and consumption trends" and "a comparative analysis of farm structure in the United States and Japan" (letter from Farrell to Yoshioka, April 20, 1987). Proposals and counterproposals were sent back and forth but the project accelerated after Professor Wen Chern of The Ohio State University learned of the project from Professor Naraomi Imamura of the University of Tokyo on a visit to Tokyo in September 1989. Because of pressing administrative responsibilities precluding an active role in the project, Kenneth Farrell recommended to Professor Imamura that the project be carried out with Professor Chern and associates.

Examines the scientific and economic viability of agriculture systems that can help farmers and policymakers achieve the goals of keeping U.S. farm exports competitive, cutting production costs, and reducing the environmental consequences of farming. Describes the dimensions of U.S. agriculture in the domestic and world economies and its evolution since WWII. Outlines some of the economic and environmental consequences of agricultural practices and fed. gov't. policies. Examines the basic science supporting farming practices widely used in alternative agriculture and analyzes the economic potential of alternative systems. Case studies.

A unique look at how the adoption of sustainable farming methods is being pursued throughout the world. This comprehensive book provides clear insight into research and education needs and the many points of view that come to bear on the issue of sustainability. Essential for agricultural leaders in research, education, conservation, policy making, and anyone else interested in creating an economically and environmentally sustainable agriculture worldwide.