Why demand organic?

To reward people who are slashing agriculture’s negative impact on the environment

By Krista Hozyash

Consumers have diverse reasons for demanding organic products in their lives.

We’re talking to a host of individuals for whom organic might mean the choice to rejuvenate local economies, support hard-working farmers, defend animal welfare, connect to specific growers or producer groups, protect the natural environment or improve human health.

The growth of organic demand and a quick overview of its benefits kicked off this series with the opening story Why demand organic: To seek health, hope, vitality.

But there’s more!

Reason #2: Demand organic for the environment

I'm concerned about the overwhelming negative impacts that large-scale, conventional agriculture has on the environment with regard to pesticide and fertilizer use, tilling and large-scale monocultures.   Kellyn Shoecraft, Masters’ student at Duke University’s     Nicholas School of the Environment, Durham, North Carolina

Chemicals used in agricultural pesticides can pollute air quality, soils and water sources, and poison wildlife as habitats are disturbed. Unless they are scrupulously managed, nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus in synthetic fertilizers flow off of agricultural lands to contaminate waters after rainfall, resulting in algae blooms and aquatic “dead zones.”

The use of fossil fuel-based products in non-organic agriculture also contributes to greenhouse gas emissions that accelerate climate instability. Organic agriculture avoids these products and related synthetic chemicals. Rather, it relies on natural systems that limit weed growth and pest outbreaks, with the occasional use of approved materials checked for their environmental impact. Organic cropland, pastures and ranges also have improved potential to store carbon in rich soils, contributing to carbon sequestration.

Building up healthy soil is the foundation of organics. Soil conservation strategies and cover crops enhance soil organic matter, which in turn improves soil structure so that it resists erosion. Organic biodiversity practices provide habitat  for many forms of wildlife through integrating pastures or forests with crops, or through natural barriers separating croplands from water sources.

Purchasing organic products from local sources can have further environmental benefits, as efficiently transported regional food travels fewer miles to reach consumers.  Local farmers and economies benefit by the cycling of dollars back into communities supporting ecologically sustainable farming.

People who advocate for healthier water sources, cleaner air, greater biodiversity, varied wildlife habitat and solutions to global climate change can also choose to support and Demand Organic.

The series so far:
Reason 1: Human health