Until my little angel came into being, I never understood the significance of healthy, organic food. Yes, only after her existence did I realise that whatever I fed her should be pure, clean, and hygienic, especially organic. Then, the complete thought of farming without chemicals and pesticides came to my mind. Organic farming is a unique way of growing food that allows the earth and our bodies to prosper. It is like taking care of plants and animals in a very gentle and natural way. We don’t use chemicals and let nature grow food by itself.
Understanding the Concept of Eco-Friendly Farming!
Organic farming is known as ecological farming or biological farming. It is an agricultural structure that uses fertilisers from organic sources such as composed dung, green dung or bone meal. We treat it like a God, respect how the cycle works, and do not interfere. These methods are regulated internationally and legally implemented by other nations.
Organic farming is a unique way of agricultural production that avoids using pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), synthetic fertilisers, and other artificial agents. Instead, organic farmers rely on natural techniques to control pests’ soil fertility and boost the productivity of crops. Further in this article, we must discuss the principles of ecological farming. It is essential; therefore, let’s discuss further on it.
Principles of Organic Farming!
The principles of this kind of farming include:
- Crop Rotation: This involves planting different crops in the same area over growing seasons to improve soil health and reduce pest and disease problems.
- Natural Pest Control: Organic farmers often use biological control methods instead of synthetic pesticides, such as introducing predator insects or using natural compounds to manage pests.
- Avoidance of Synthetic Chemicals: Organic farming prohibits synthetic chemicals, including synthetic fertilisers, herbicides, and pesticides.
- Animal Welfare: In organic livestock farming, owners typically raise their animals in conditions that prioritise their well-being, including access to outdoor spaces and the use of organic feed.
- Composting: Organic farmers use composted organic matter, such as crop residues and animal manure, to enhance soil structure, fertility, and water retention.
- Conservation of Biodiversity: It encourages the preservation of natural habitats and biodiversity to create a balanced ecosystem that supports agricultural sustainability.
- Genetic Modification Avoidance: It does not allow using genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Organic farming is often associated with ecological sustainability, reduced chemical exposure for farmers and consumers, and promoting healthy ecosystems. It can face lower yields compared to conventional farming and higher initial costs. Certification bodies, such as the European Union Organic Farming Regulation (EUOFR) in the European Union and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in the USA, establish regulations and standards for biological farming. Organic farms are certified when they meet these standards.
Despite these challenges, the demand for organic products has grown as consumers become more conscious of the environmental and health implications of conventional agricultural practices.
Organic Farming & Its Benefits!
The benefits of conducting ecological farming are many; let’s discuss a few of them:
- Organic farmers can reduce greenhouse gas discharge.
- It is more environmentally friendly because they don’t use chemicals but use organic materials.
- Organic farming is more sustainable as it improves the solid by mixing organic matter.
- It is energy efficient, using 45% less energy than other farming methods.
- Established farmers are less endangered by risks as they need more crop diversification because it uses land management.
Organic Farming & Its Drawbacks!
Eco-friendly or biological farming is an excellent method of sustaining a better environment; however, like all other ways, this kind of farming also has drawbacks. Let’s discuss them too:
- Organic farming is more expensive because we have to put in more intensive labour, and organic feed is costly, too.
- It requires even more planning because we have to separate the weeds or seeds differently, using less energy.
- Production costs are high as farmers need to hire more workers.
- Marketing and distribution are not helpful because farmers produce small quantities of natural food.
- These farmers should have enough knowledge and abilities about restricted soil systems, meteorology, ecology, and other factors that help crop growth.
Conclusion!
Organic farming is important because it helps the environment and makes our food healthy. We even need clean air and water to stay healthy. It’s more sustainable than conventional methods. This farming uses 45% less energy, 20% less water, and 40% fewer carbon dispersions. It is all about nature growing by itself and letting it happen by itself so we can get what we want. I have opted for organic food and farming. As I said earlier, all the changes in my life happened because of my motherhood; get answers to your common questions on motherhood in my blog. It has changed my lifestyle and health habits. What about you?
