Organic farming also known as ecological or biological farming is an agricultural system that uses fertilizers of organic origin. This include compost, manure, green manure, bone meal, and it places emphasis on techniques such as crop rotation and planting.

Compared with conventional agriculture, organic farming uses fewer pesticides, and reduces soil erosion. It decreases nitrate leaching into ground water and surface water, and recycles animal wastes back into the farm.

The benefits of switching to organic farming:

Switching over to organic farming in South Africa brings with it an abundance of benefits. Because it might seem as though it is time-consuming, the results will speak for themselves. The benefits of organic farming include:

Less compacted soil: One of the major benefits of organic farming is that the soil becomes less compacted. So, this makes tilling and planting easier and more efficient, as well as helping to prevent soil erosion.

Reduced production costs: You will be using less agricultural equipment, which means that there will be less production costs to incur. So, you can spend the money you have saved on increasing your organic methods and on marketing your goods.

Improved health of workers: Because you will be using less harmful chemicals, your workers will have improved health. They will not be breathing in herbicides and pesticides, making for a safer and healthier work environment.

Because there are certainly challenges to be faced with organic farming in South Africa, the benefits outweigh these ten fold. So, if you are interested in joining the movement, do some research and find out how you can contribute.

Organic agriculture has a significant role to play in addressing the pressing problems of food security and climate change. So, it is therefore  important that national policies in Africa do not overlook the valuable tool-kit provided by organic agriculture. In addition to expanding international market access, farmers need to develop local and regional markets for organic produce in Africa. Key elements to achieving long-term sustainability of organic production systems in Africa include: increased consumer awareness, and cooperation among stakeholders. Also, producers in the supply chain, and increased investments in research on organic agriculture. Furthermore, the development of conformity assessment mechanisms for local marketing that are accessible for smallholders.