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State of the Eco-Union
'Where We've Been, Where We're Going, What We're Doing'
By Joel Salatin, Acres, USA, May 2003
"Joel Salatin provides a spirited and thought-provoking overview of the eco-agriculture movement, from his speech on the state of the eco-union, at the 2002 Acres U.S.A. Conference."
Joel Salatin describes the clash of two agricultural paradigms, one being sustainable agriculture and organic farming, which he defines as having an eastern mind set, based on connectedness, community, reverence for life - the artisan tradition of the small producer intimately connected with his customers. The opposing paradigm is western - reductionist, linear, fragmented, individualistic - the global industrial model.
As eco-agriculture gains market share, it attracts big business, and falls increasingly under government regulation. In State of the Eco-Union, Joel Salatin discusses the realities and dangers of the organic movement being taken over and subverted by the western industrial model. He isn't down on technology per se, just greed and stupidity. Although he paints a depressing picture, he is optimistic that reason, passion, and courage will prevail. In his conclusion, he states: "I am convinced that the freedom to eat our choice will be one of the showdowns of tomorrow."
I hate to quibble, Joel, but I think we're having this showdown now. Read State Of The Eco-Union in the Acres USA Archives
Although it isn't a vegetarian publication, Acres USA has been a strong voice for ecological, sustainable agriculture, the organic movement, and small farming, for thirty-five years. The executive editor, Charles Walters & the Editor/Publisher, Fred Walters, seem to be rather intelligent, well-informed, and thoughtful men, if the editorial content is anything to go by. The magazine is jammed with high caliber content like State of the Eco-Union - several hours reading in more 40 or so pages.
