What Is Organic Farming? A Featured Article

June 8, 2011

in Organic

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Organic farming is a form of agriculture in which no synthetic components are used — in addition,  certified control measures are maintaining from production to consumption. The goal of organic farming is to avoid soil, water and air pollution and sustain the health of soils, ecosystems and people. Organic farming dates back to the 20th century as topics like environment consciousness, the thinning of the ozone layer and the future of Earth began to emerge.

At first, many different theories and methods were tested, some that were perhaps a little curious such as the astrological effects and positioning of the stars and moon. No matter the theory considered, it is clear that the general idea behind organic farming is to sustain the ecological balance (such engaging in farming and animal husbandry together as a family business) and in the end, ensuring that your activities are self-sufficient.


Organic farming first became popular between the first and second World War but its influence diminished after the USA’s Marshall Plan came into being.  The plan, which caused intensive farming to spread fast,  made way for rapid mechanization, chemical fertilizers, and the common use of medicine and additives to crops. The European Union’s agricultural support policies in the 1960′s along with increasing use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers in the 1970s contributed to decline of organic farming as well.

Groups that embraced that “Green Revolution” weren’t able to solve the issue of  famine in the world  — they actually did quite the opposite by endangering human health and decimating ecological balance when they began researching better solutions. After 1979, the DDT group of pesticides were banned in the world, starting in the USA due to pressure from scientists and social groups. Consequently, organic farming began to regain its popularity again and after 1980, consumers increasingly began to request organic products. With the increase in demand for organic items, organic farmers were able to gain commercial status and if they chose, they could easily expand their production (and no longer remain a small family-operated business).  One other factor in the resurgence in organic farming – a law was created which prohibited inorganic materials from being used in the food given to 0-2 year old children in the USA.

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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }

1 Elizah Leigh March 24, 2009 at 20:18

Considering that organic farming has regained popularity across the world and a lot more mainstream consumers seek out certified organic goods, why are prices still so high? I expected that with greater demand, prices on organic produce would fall. Why can’t conventional farming be eliminated altogether so that everyone can do their part to help the environment while eating far more healthy food?

2 Umesh September 20, 2011 at 11:22

This is a very useful article. I want to expand my knowledge in organic farming so please provide some more information about the procedure and suitable corps for organic farming

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