Making organic agriculture even more sustainable
Organic agriculture is a form of sustainable agriculture, good for man, nature and environment. But even this form of agriculture can be made more sustainable. Research by Applied Plant Research helps to achieve this and at the same time makes conventional farming more sustainable.
The characteristic of organic farming is that it works along with the natural environment and does not go against it. The fact that organic farmers are not using chemicals against pests and diseases, e.g., makes that natural enemies that help to keep harmful insects under control are surviving. And the less intensive soil tillage and the fact that the soil is covered, also in winter, mean that fewer nutrients are leaching, resulting in lower fertiliser needs.
This system leads to so-called ‘suppressive farming systems’: the crops continue growing and producing, also in case of a pest attack or a period with heavy rainfall. And when problems with pests, disease or weeds would still occur, the farmers are utilising ‘green’ techniques that are saving the agricultural system and nature, such as mechanical weed control.
Together with farmers
In close interaction with farmers the scientists are developing and testing new suppressive systems and innovative green technologies. This, e.g., results in one specific concept that started on one farm becoming applicable for the whole farming community. At the same time research shows whether and how the organic systems have added value for other functions than agricultural production alone, such as an increased water holding capacity or CO2 sequestering in the soil.
This is how scientists are helping to make organic farming even more sustainable, with higher yields, less nutrient leaching, and reduced use of resources. And conventional farming benefits as well as organic farming because many concepts can be used there as well.