Organic 3.0

Unpacking the Principle of Ecology

Organic agriculture should be based on living ecological systems and cycles, work with and emulate them, and help sustain them. Those who produce, process, trade or consume organic products should protect and benefit the common environment including landscapes, climate, habitats, biodiversity, air and water.

Organic farming should fit the cycles and ecological balances in nature, meaning there should be no disturbance to ecosystems to suit farmers, rather farmers should work according to local conditions. Organic management must be adapted to local conditions, ecology, culture and scale. Inputs should be reduced by reuse, recycling and efficient management of materials and energy to maintain and improve environmental quality and conserve resources. Organic agriculture should attain ecological balance through the design of farming systems, establishment of habitats and maintenance of agricultural diversity including use of different varieties for genetic diversity. Different
enterprises within the production system give diversity that enhances the ecosystem. In addressing the principle of ecology, it is important to note that farmers are stewards of nature and its creation and in all activities should bear in mind that all forms of life are equally important.