Benefits of Organic Farming
Among all forms of land management, organic farming is considered to be the most environmentally friendly one.
Holistic, interconnected thinking, a largely closed farm cycle and a diverse operational structure form the basis of—and are essential for—successful organic farming. In this way, the natural resources of soil and water are protected and preserved for future generations.
Organic farming...
...promotes circular farming systems
Organic farming aims to operate within closed cycles wherever possible. Compost is produced and applied to agricultural land to return organic matter and valuable plant nutrients to the soil. Farmyard manure, liquid manure and slurry are used as organic fertilisers, while legumes are cultivated to fix nitrogen in the soil.
...brings soils to life
Soil life is supported through gentle soil cultivation, carefully selected crop rotations and the application of compost and properly treated organic fertilisers. These measures activate soil nutrients and increase humus content. The targeted cultivation of legumes and forage crops also has a positive effect on soil fertility. The aim is to maintain a healthy and functioning soil system.
...prioritises animal-friendly husbandry
Housing systems that provide outdoor access or grazing are particularly animal-friendly. Feed comes from organic farming, and preventive veterinary medicines are not used. Additional space in the barn, soft resting areas, enrichment materials and feed with a high proportion of roughage for ruminants are also essential requirements.
...preserves biodiversity and habitat diversity
By refraining from the use of chemically synthesised pesticides, organic farming promotes biodiversity on cultivated land. For example, an Austria-wide insect study (DaFNE) provides indications that organic farming has a positive effect on insect abundance. The use of rare plant varieties and animal breeds also contributes to the preservation of genetic diversity.
...protects the climate
The use of regional feed and the avoidance of synthetic nitrogen fertilisers help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Organic farming promotes the build-up of humus, thereby increasing the soil’s water-storage capacity. In addition, organic soils can bind more CO₂ as a result of humus-building farming practices.
...protects water resources
By avoiding chemically synthesised pesticides and generally keeping fewer animals per hectare of agricultural land, organic farming helps to keep both surface water and groundwater clean. Targeted soil cover, such as catch crops and undersown crops, also reduces evaporation during dry periods.
...is guaranteed to be GMO-free
Organic farming is guaranteed to be free from genetically modified organisms. Processed foods may not contain genetically modified ingredients or food additives, and animals may not be fed genetically modified feed.
...is regularly inspected
The production of organic food is subject to even stricter controls than conventionally produced food. At least once a year, organic farms—from fields and livestock housing to processing and marketing—are inspected by independent, officially authorised control bodies.
...is governed by uniform rules throughout the EU
EU Regulation 2018/848 lays down the rules for the entire production process of organic products within the EU, including production, inspection and imports.