Organic Farming

Definition of Organic Farming

Organic farming is an agricultural production system that relies on natural processes, biological cycles, and ecological balance rather than synthetic inputs. It focuses on building healthy soils, supporting biodiversity, and managing crops and livestock through practices such as crop rotation, organic fertilisation, biological pest control, and animal welfare standards.

Rather than maximising output through chemical intervention, organic farming emphasises long-term soil fertility, ecosystem health, and traceable production methods, operating within clearly defined certification and regulatory frameworks.

Why Organic Farming Matters

Organic farming matters because it supports environmentally responsible food production while responding to consumer demand for transparency and sustainability. Key benefits include:

• Improved soil health through increased organic matter and biological activity

• Reduced chemical pollution by avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilisers

• Enhanced biodiversity in farmland ecosystems

• Animal welfare improvements through higher husbandry standards

• Market and consumer trust supported by certification and labelling systems

Organic farming contributes to resilient food systems by prioritising ecological stability alongside economic viability.

Key Principles of Organic Farming

• Soil Fertility Management – Using compost, green manures, and organic matter to maintain soil health

• Crop Rotation and Diversity – Reducing pest pressure and improving nutrient balance

• Biological Pest and Disease Control – Encouraging natural enemies and ecological balance

• Animal Welfare Standards – Ensuring access to outdoor areas, organic feed, and humane management

• Prohibition of Synthetic Inputs – Avoiding synthetic fertilisers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms

• Certification and Traceability – Adhering to regulated organic standards and inspections

• Environmental Stewardship – Protecting water quality, soil structure, and biodiversity

Related Terms

• Sustainable Agriculture

• Agroecology

• Regenerative Agriculture

• Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

• Soil Health

• Biodiversity

Useful Resources on Organic Farming

Explore these authoritative resources to learn more about organic agriculture, certification standards, and ecological farming practices:

• FAO – Organic Agriculture – Global guidance on organic farming principles, policies, and practices.

• IFOAM Organics International– International standards, advocacy, and resources for organic agriculture.

• Soil Association – Organic Farming (UK) – Certification guidance, best practices, and market insights.

• USDA – National Organic Program (NOP) – Official U.S. organic standards, certification rules, and compliance guidance.

• European Commission – Organic Farming – EU regulations, policy objectives, and organic market data.

• Our World in Data – Organic Agriculture – Data and analysis on organic land use, yields, and environmental impacts.

• AGRIS – Organic Farming Research Database– Peer-reviewed research on organic production systems.

• Rodale Institute – Organic and Regenerative Farming – Long-term research on soil health and organic practices.

• DEFRA – Organic Farming and Land Management (UK) – Policy guidance and support schemes related to organic production.

• The Organic Research Centre - The UK’s leading independent organic research organisation

• IFOAM Organics Europe - Representing organic in European policymaking and advocating for a transformation of food and farming. Their work is based on the principles of organic agriculture – health, ecology, fairness and care.