Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Table 2.2
(continued)
IFOAM Principles (2009)
The Principle of Ecology
Organic Agriculture should be based on living ecological systems and cycles, work with them,
emulate them and help sustain them
This principle roots organic agriculture within living ecological systems. It states that
production is to be based on ecological processes, and recycling. Nourishment and well-being
are achieved through the ecology of the specific production environment. For example, in the
case of crops this is the living soil; for animals it is the farm ecosystem; for fish and marine
organisms, the aquatic environment
Organic farming, pastoral and wild harvest systems should fit the cycles and ecological
balances in nature. These cycles are universal but their operation is site- specific. 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 in order 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 genetic and agricultural diversity. Those who
produce, process, trade, or consume organic products should protect and benefit the common
environment including landscapes, climate, habitats, biodiversity, air and water
The Principle of Fairness
Organic Agriculture should build on relationships that ensure fairness with regard to the
common environment and life opportunities
Fairness is characterized by equity, respect, justice and stewardship of the shared world, both
among people and in their relations to other living beings
This principle emphasizes that those involved in organic agriculture should conduct human
relationships in a manner that ensures fairness at all levels and to all parties - farmers, workers,
processors, distributors, traders and consumers. Organic agriculture should provide everyone
involved with a good quality of life, and contribute to food sovereignty and reduction of
poverty. It aims to produce a sufficient supply of good quality food and other products
This principle insists that animals should be provided with the conditions and opportunities of
life that accord with their physiology, natural behavior and well-being.
The Principle of Care
Organic Agriculture should be managed in a precautionary and responsible manner to protect
the health and well-being of current and future generations and the environment
Organic agriculture is a living and dynamic system that responds to internal and external
demands and conditions. Practitioners of organic agriculture can enhance efficiency and
increase productivity, but this should not be at the risk of jeopardizing health and well-being.
Consequently, new technologies need to be assessed and existing methods reviewed. Given the
incomplete understanding of ecosystems and agriculture, care must be taken
This principle states that precaution and responsibility are the key concerns in management,
development and technology choices in organic agriculture. Science is necessary to ensure that
organic agriculture is healthy, safe and ecologically sound. However, scientific knowledge
alone is not sufficient. Practical experience, accumulated wisdom and traditional and
indigenous knowledge offer valid solutions, tested by time. Organic agriculture should prevent
significant risks by adopting appropriate technologies and rejecting unpredictable ones, such as
genetic engineering. Decisions should reflect the values and needs of all who might be
affected, through transparent and participatory processes
Source: IFOAM (
2009
)
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