I have had a number of replies, all positive, about the TreeCropper keeping an eye on relevant political issues. Thank you for the feedback.
I believe politics are important to tree cropping in New Zealand. I disagree with Arden Anderson (TreeCropper 56) that change is grassroots led. Take Cuba for example.
Previously intensively growing monocultural sugar or tobacco for export, Cuba produced little of their own food. When the Soviet Empire collapsed and withdrew their aid, and with a US embargo on imports, they suddenly had to grow their own food or starve - and there were no fertiliser, pesticides or oil to do so.
Even transportation was an issue.
Organaponicos (raised, organic gardens, often community owned) were encouraged with government-subsidised seeds and tools. Within ten years, Cuba was being hailed as the world leader in organic food production.
They now have a more nutritious diet than before, stronger communities and a sense of achievement and independence, not to mention the economic benefits.
I sincerely hope New Zealand never experiences anything like Cuba's 'Special Period' that forced such autonomy, but I believe it will be politics that determine whether New Zealand heads towards sustainable, nutritious self-sufficiency, or genetically-modified mass production for export and economic benefit. And I know in which direction I want to cast my vote.
