摘要 : The concept of sustainable development of agriculture tends to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It consists of a model for the balanced manage... 展开 The concept of sustainable development of agriculture tends to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It consists of a model for the balanced management of a system with five capital assets: financial capital; human capital; physical man-made capital; social capital; and natural capital. A major challenge for a more sustainable agriculture in Europe is to increase productivity at an equal or lower consumption rate ofthe natural capital. This may be achieved by increasing efficiency, substituting non-renewable external inputs, and optimizing synergisms by re-design of cropping and livestock systems. Optimization of key processes of the agroecosystem is important. Research may support sustainable development of agriculture by contributing to the discussion of common goals, providing knowledge about ecosystems (such as carrying capacity and cause-effect relations) and developing decision support systems for farmers for a more sustainable farm management. 收起