Organic farming is a rapidly growing sector. As an alternative to conventional farming methods, it holds the key to multiple crises facing the globe - from environmental degradation, hunger, health, and climate change.
But what is organic farming and why is it so incredibly important?
Organic agriculture solves big problems
Humans have always been in competition with the natural world to ensure a stable and reliable source of food. Whether that’s scaring away predators to hunt for meat, or overcoming drought and pests to grow the right crops, humans have always been put to the test when it comes to feeding a growing community or population.
These days, with approximately 74 million new people entering the earth every year - the amount of arable land is sharply in decline and the ends we go to to ensure food gets to the table are becoming more extreme than ever before. More than 200 million tonnes of synthetic fertilizers are used every year to spray crops and plants just to ensure they aren’t eaten up by the natural environment.
This, along with harmful and destructive farming practices effects, is contributing to global hunger, diminishing resources, loss of biodiversity, and increased adverse effects of climate change.
But what is organic farming?
Organic farming uses natural processes and seasonal rhythms to cultivate the land. Instead of using potentially harmful synthetic chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides, organic farming processes are designed to keep a natural balance between the land, humans, and animals.
Organic production aims to sustain the land’s biodiversity through the following processes:
- Crop rotation
- Using natural crop fertilizers, organic matter, and manures
- Maintaining and improving soil fertility
- Protecting and conserving the natural environment at large
What are the benefits of organic farming?
As a natural method of farming, organic agriculture aims to deliver better products compared to conventional farming methods. There are several benefits associated with organic farming methods that in today’s world cannot be overlooked:
Organic farming is more sustainable
Organic farmers aim to produce products at a local level without mass production that overloads the natural ecosystem. Conventional farming is often driven purely by profit, and maximizing gains without any consideration about the integrity of the natural environment. Organic fruit and vegetables are also seldom packaged, meaning they have a lower Co2 footprint. In a world where climate change is destroying natural ecosystems - organic farming is a major part of the answer to this crisis.
Organic produce is fairer
Organic food is fairer for consumers and producers. In preserving natural habitats and encouraging better farming practices organic agriculture aims to ensure the future arability of land for future generations. Organic farming also gives confidence to consumers through upholding rigorous organic standards and organic certification in order to maintain the integrity of their produce.
Organic food is better for your health
Conventional agriculture uses synthetic pesticides to combat weeds and the growth of certain fungicides. Inevitably, these chemicals end up in the food we eat. The World Health Organisation confirms that pesticide residue on food may cause cancer, reproductive issues, and negative effects on the immune and nervous system.
Without the presence of harmful chemicals and pesticides, organic produce is free from potentially nasty side effects of such substances.
Organic food is better for animal welfare
Conventional farming methods do not support animals’ well-being or welfare. Central to the model that created the modern farming system is the practice of forced insemination, selective breeding, and mass production system for the purpose of maximizing output. Organic farming, on the other hand, seeks to bring animal welfare into focus by adhering to minimum standards and allowing a better quality of life.
Organic foods are actually cheaper than you think
The big misconception surrounding organic food is that it’s expensive. However, organic produce, fruits, and vegetables, in particular, are actually cheaper than you might think. If you focus on including a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains instead of highly processed foods you’ll find your bill at the checkout is probably less than normal.
Why organic farming is better for the future
Organic farming holds many keys to the issues surrounding ecological disasters, overpopulation, global warming, and indeed the global health crisis. With more sustainable, healthy, and affordable foods on the market, it’s only a matter of time before organic farming practices become the norm.
The good news is that a recent study found that 73% of global consumers said they would most likely change their habits in order to help the environment. This bodes well for organic farmers, who are likely to profit from increased awareness of consumers and higher demand for more sustainable, healthy organic crops.
Keys to making Organic Farming Sustainable
Part of ensuring the long-term sustainability and economic viability of organic farming is investing in the technology needed to support the growing sector. The Kubota RTV is a critical piece of technology that is engineered to support ethical and sustainable organic farming practices. With low emissions, high horsepower, and a comfortable ride, Kubota RTVs are designed with sustainable farming at the centre.
Equip your farm for the future at Boya Equip
Going organic and implementing more sustainable practices on your farm will undoubtedly be a great step forward. Getting there with the right tools and equipment by your side is important.
Choose a local dealer who values sustainability and the natural environment. At Boya Equip, the long-term sustainability of your farm is our focus. Get in touch with our team to talk about how Kubota tractors can equip your farm for the future.