Economic efficiency must not be the only criterion in technological choices. The preservation and the up-grading of the resources of the environment must become a priority concern. The cultivated plant is the main biological resource at stake in the production process. The harvested plant is intended to satisfy a human need. It is also a means of improving the environment. The plant, as an instrument, must constantly be improved and adapted to the conditions of its cultivation. In order to create new genetic combinations increasingly complicated methods are worked out. The improvement of plants is a biological technique with a long-lasting influence. The physical and biological factors at work within the soil and the climate must be used to best advantage. The struggle against any kind of deterioration of the soil (erosion), against accidents and parasites, is an essential aspect of the increased potential and production value. The choice and perfecting of gentle techniques should enable efficiency and the protection of the environment to be reconciled. In conclusion, safe-guarding and improving the potential of the soil, preserving and making best use of the available water, are the main means of making progress in farming.
