What Wendell Berry meant to Christian farmers going green

Wendell Berry, a Kentucky farmer, writer and activist, held great influence over environmentally conscious individuals. As an environmental anthropologist, the author had observed the profound impact Berry had on rural producers who transitioned from conventional farming methods to sustainable or regenerative approaches. These farmers, who had farmed their family land for generations, initially used industrial practices but later adopted methods that protected the soil, land and water.

Berry, a Christian, emphasized the connection between environmentally responsible farming and his faith, which provided comfort to those farmers who felt morally conflicted by conventional agriculture. The author's research revealed that many of these farmers faced social and religious challenges in their transition. They often encountered ostracization from family and church members who viewed sustainable farming as anti-farmer and anti-rural, or even a sin against God.

Such resistance stemmed from a distrust of science, rural white Christian nationalism and apocalyptic conspiracism, which viewed environmental concerns as signs of the impending end of the world. Despite the difficulties, these farmers continued to adapt their methods, leading to improvements in soil health, greater biodiversity and reduced need for added fertilizers.

Berry's passing deeply saddened those he had inspired, as they saw his legacy as a validation of their moral stance on sustainable farming.