Food is the common denominator. The ability to access nutritious food is the core element of life, connecting all things, and for human population has been the greatest component leading to the rise and fall of civilization throughout history. Food sovereignty, the ability to choose the type of food being grown and manage the means of production has always been the surest form of food security. This is a fundamental need, that going unmet, creates great difficulty in meeting all other needs. Therefore, whether through simple gardening efforts, high-tech agronomics, or culturally appropriate foraging, ARK supports and actively nurtures individuals ability to have access to good whole foods through the production process at all times as a “three-sisters’ approach to eradicating hunger.
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Three Sisters of a Food Sovereign Nation
Advanced Agronomics
Technology is an extension of the innovative mind, and used appropriately, can serve the benefit and welfare of all humanity. Its a simple matter of choice investments. For example, a “vertical farm” can bring peace by feeding thousands of people for a static cost of $150M. The same investment covers 1 fighter plane used only for bringing war. As the climate grows more erratic and as we seek to preserve the unspoiled wilderness that is home to the rich diversity of life, technology allows us to create in the urban environment the tools to economically and effectively produce what we need.
Traditional Agriculture
Throughout history farmers and gardeners have fed the people of the world and made it a more beautiful place for all who share in her bounty. As the foundation of civilization the pursuit of localizing the means of production and the materials economy of food is an essential component of national security, public health, and economic resilience. Real food (not heavily processed).The environmental degradation and human suffering caused by monocultured greed, has pushed us to the brink and its time we take these systems back. Diner table policies dictate the best value for the lowest price and that is converting your lawn, deck, or window into a “micro-farm”. If you’re not into producing yourself consider a guerilla gardening club who can “crop share” the available space.
Cultural Cultivation
Place is the base for culture, language, and tradition. Local sources can provide staples, medicine, and herbs to expand the palate. The action of gathering from the wild lands can connect us with our past, ground us in the present, and inspire us to preserve what we can for those who come after. Beyond the nourishment of the body, the cultivation of regionally appropriate foods can pass along language, tradition, as preserve unique cultures. Knowing which plants can cure or cause harm is an essential skill not only in emergency situations but to provide choice alternatives to processed pharmaceuticals.