Conclusion prospects of organic farming
Answers
Interest in organic agriculture methods is growing, especially in areas where the present farming system has degraded resources essential to agricultural production (especially land). Non-production factors, such as the farmer's health, are also mentioned as a reason for shifting to organic management. Consumers also have an interest in organic agriculture. Consumer awareness of the environmental costs of agriculture (such as the deteriorating quality of drinking water and soil, and the impact of agriculture on landscape and wildlife) is increasing. The awareness of environmental quality and health is often promoted by environmental groups, especially in developed countries. The resulting demand for organic products creates the opportunity to sell organic products at premium prices, enabling organic farmers to continue, and often expand.
Some governments have begun to recognize the possibility that it may be cheaper to support organic agriculture than to rectify problems associated with certain resource-destruction production practices. For this reason, several governments have introduced subsidies for organic agriculture. These subsidies come in many forms, such as direct payments to farmers (both for those in the conversion stage and also for established organic farmers), and indirect aid (such as for education, research, extension and marketing).
However, the most important factor that will enable organic agriculture to usefully contribute to food security is the attitude of decision-makers. Organic agriculture must be discussed with an open mind, with the advantages and disadvantages being clearly considered. Only then can developing countries fully determine the potential of organic agriculture under various conditions. FAO can play a key role in promoting a more objective debate on the potential role of organic agriculture, and identifying the circumstances where organic agriculture can be applied most beneficially.