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Get your free copy29 July 2009, 17:26 PM
- In the wake of a mixed press, fuelled by controversial discussions into the future of our agricultural systems, organic farming has been given a tentative thumbs-up, according to a new report by the University of Reading
The findings, which focus on ‘England and Wales under organic agriculture: how much food could be produced?’, conclude that the organic sector has ‘much to offer’ and ‘is, perhaps, mainstream agriculture in waiting.
“Organic farming does not have all the answers to the challenges of climate change and diet related ill-health and there is still a lot of work to do to improve organic systems. But, the report shows the positive impact that organic farming could have – providing us with a far healthier and more climate-friendly diet,” says Peter Melchett, policy director of the Soil Association.
Key findings include: increased beef production by 68% and lamb by 55%, a fall in energy intensive inputs - fertiliser inputs could be cut by 95% and sprays by 98% - and an estimated 73% increase in farm employment.
The research was funded by the Soil Association, together with an independent trust. This year’s Soil Association Organic Fortnight (5th to 20th September) will focus on the value and benefits of organic products.
