Photo: BMLFUW
WHAT DOES “ORGANIC” mean?
Organic farming is the most environmentally compatible form of agriculture. Yet ‘organic’ means more than just farming without synthetic chemicals.
A holistic philosophy and a farming cycle as complete as possible, with a diverse structure, are the principles and prerequisites for successful organic farming. The natural resources of soil and water are used in an environmentally compatible manner and are preserved for future generations. Organic farming, therefore, is a holistic approach which takes into account the following principles:Organic farming, for example, excludes the use of artificial fertilisers, the production of which consumes large amounts of energy.
Use of natural self-regulating mechanisms
Through diversified crop rotation, the promotion of beneficial animals and a vividly living soil as well as the use of suitable species and animal breeds diseases, pests and weeds do not become rampant.
Nourishment of the soils instead of the plants
Soil nutrients are activated through careful soil cultivation and the application of compost.
Fullest farming cycles possible
Farm waste products, such as compost or organic manure (dung, muck, animal slurry), are recycled; if possible, no additional agricultural supplies are purchased.
Protection of environmental resources
By taking all these principles into account, organic farming ensures a rather careful way of dealing with natural resources.
28.11.2005, Lebensministerium II/8