Introduction to Organic Farming

Questions and Answers

What are the main principles of organic farming according to the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements?

The main principles are health, ecology, fairness, and care.

How much lower are the average yields of organic farming compared to conventional agriculture?

Organic farming yields are, on average, 20% lower than conventional agriculture.

What percentage of the global agricultural land area is currently dedicated to organic farming?

Organic farming is practiced on 1.4% of the global agricultural land area.

Name one environmental concern associated with the use of organic pesticides like pyrethrins.

Pyrethrins can be harmful to humans and nontarget organisms. Signup and view all the answers

What potential challenge does organic farming face regarding pest management?

Pests may develop resistance to biopesticides used in organic farming. Signup and view all the answers

How is organic farming often viewed in relation to sustainable agriculture?

Organic farming is treated by many as a synonym for sustainable agriculture. Signup and view all the answers

What are some concerns regarding the conversion of natural ecosystems to agroecosystems in organic farming?

There is concern about meeting demand and the ecological impact of converting natural areas. Signup and view all the answers

What is considered a significant weakness of organic farming compared to conventional agriculture?

Organic farming has lower temporal stability compared to conventional agriculture. Signup and view all the answers

What environmental footprint concern is associated with the manure used in organic farming?

The big carbon footprint of manure is a significant concern. Signup and view all the answers

How does organic farming typically handle nitrogen availability in the root zone?

There is often a shortage of nitrate in the root zone and nitrate leaching occurs. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition and Principles

Organic farming (OF) avoids synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, transgenic species, antibiotics, and growth-enhancing steroids.
Principles of OF include health, ecology, fairness, and care, as defined by the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements.

Comparison to Conventional Agriculture

OF is often seen as contrasting with conventional agriculture, cited for its lower negative environmental impact.
Many view OF as synonymous with sustainable agriculture (SA), recognizing overlapping goals.

Yields and Stability

Average yields in OF are about 20% lower than those in conventional agriculture.
OF may have lower temporal stability, which can impact environmental outcomes per product unit.

Challenges and Concerns

Potential challenges include converting natural ecosystems to agroecosystems to meet food demand.
Concerns exist over the safety of organically accepted pesticides, such as pyrethrins, impacting human health and non-target organisms.
Development of pest resistance to biopesticides and high carbon footprint from manure usage are noteworthy issues.
Nutritional challenges include nitrate shortages in the root zone and resulting nitrate leaching.

Global Reach and Certification

Only 1.4% of global agricultural land is dedicated to OF, with 0.4% certified organic.
The importance and adoption of certified organic farming is on the rise, considered a pathway to ecological intensification.

Description

This quiz covers the principles and practices of organic farming (OF) and its relation to sustainable agriculture. You'll explore the standards set by the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements and the importance of health, ecology, fairness, and care within organic practices. Test your knowledge on how organic farming aligns with SA goals and its impact on our environment.